CH&Co Group’s commercial division has strengthened its commitment to providing the best innovative food and service to its clients through key operational and culinary appointments and promotions.
This is part of the strategy to drive strong growth for the division, which includes the brands Ampersand, Ampersand Events and Chester Boyd, and make it the catering partner of choice for the UK’s venues, visitor attractions and events market.
Sean Ritson has joined the team as Operational Director – Commercial. In this pivotal role, Sean is responsible for generating organic growth with the existing customer base, retaining all current contracts and driving future growth opportunities.
He brings to the team 15 years’ experience in the competitive field of commercial retail businesses, having previously worked for some of Compass’ largest commercial B&I contracts and most recently as business director for bartlett mitchell, responsible for the Central London Business and Inn or Out Events. Sean’s skills in successfully motivating teams and delivering for both company and clients in high-volume environments, niche contracts and premium city contracts are perfect for CH&Co Group’s diverse commercial division.
Meanwhile, the commercial culinary team has also been strengthened with promotions that recognise the achievements of chefs from within the Group. The talented, Craft Guild of Chefs award-winning, Karen Poynter, has been promoted to Executive Chef – Commercial. Owen Hurley has also been promoted to Day Visitor Catering Development Chef and Luke Smith is now Executive Support Chef for Ampersand.
As executive chef, Karen will support Owen and Luke to develop menus that meet and exceed the expectations of today’s demanding consumer. Their focus will be on ensuring the culinary teams continue producing innovative, seasonal dishes using fresh, quality ingredients with provenance that reflects the latest culinary trends and capture the individuality of each venue – from visitor attractions and historic royal palaces to London’s esteemed livery halls and unique event venues.
Karen is celebrated for her dedication and enthusiasm to mentoring and nurturing culinary talent within CH&Co Group and the wider industry. In her new role, she will continue to develop rising stars and encourage more female chefs to embrace an exciting career in hospitality.
Robin Bidgood, managing director of CH&Co Group’s commercial division describes the changes as excellent news for the business and its clients: “We cater for a diverse range of commercial clients, from well-known visitor attractions and heritage sites to prestigious livery halls and venues, and have a strong reputation for creativity and high standards that capture the individuality of each one. The changes within the team will enhance our ability to deliver innovative food and service and meet our goal of being the caterer of choice in the commercial catering market. They will also help us attract new employees to our team and develop talent. The commercial division is stronger than ever and our clients, new and existing, will benefit from our expertise and innovation, whilst we continue to maximise growth opportunities for the business.”
CH&Co Group’s commercial business provides exceptional catering and service to a diverse portfolio of clients including: visitor attractions catering, such as ZSL London Zoo, Birmingham Botanical Gardens and Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew; London’s revered livery halls; Historic Royal Palaces such as Kensington Palace and Hampton Court; and bespoke event catering at some of London’s most unique venues.