Commercial kitchen setting where several people in chef uniforms and aprons are gathered around a work surface. In the foreground, one person wearing blue gloves is preparing food at a cutting board with utensils and containers nearby, while others stand behind observing and engaging in the activity.
Two people standing by an open doorway in an outdoor setting. One person holds a bunch of fresh leafy greens while speaking to another person wearing a white chef-style jacket. Greenery and plants are visible in the background, suggesting a garden or farm environment.

What's it like on a Culinary Academy Masterclass

We recently hosted Culinary Academy Masterclasses at Tewinbury Farm in Hertfordshire and Dublin in Ireland. We caught up with Zobias Gorman, Sous Chef in Corporate Services to talk what it's like to take part

  • Published on May 15, 2026

Loading component...

Loading component...

What other learning and support have you received in your role? 

I have received a lot of support from my executive chef Dario Rendon, throughout my time here. He has given me extra responsibility when I was ready for it, always been on hand to give advice and encouraged me to further my career within Sodexo. 

You recently won an award at the International Salon Culinaire competition - how important is entering these competitions for your career? These competitions are hugely important in advancing my career further, through upskilling and exposure. It can be challenging to stand out in a big company like Sodexo, and this is what platforms such as Salon Culinaire provide. Furthermore, creating a dish from scratch whilst keeping within the limits of the competitions, such as time, products, and environment, enables you to become a smarter chef. 

Commercial kitchen scene showing several people in chef uniforms and aprons gathered around a preparation area. In the foreground, one person wearing a white shirt, apron, cap, and blue gloves is working at a wooden cutting board with utensils and containers nearby, while others stand behind observing and assisting.

What are your ambitions for the future as a chef? 

Sodexo is a company that is hugely supportive of your career and has a wealth of opportunities available. I would like to move up the ladder within Sodexo for that reason, utilising opportunities such as gaining my Level 4 Senior Culinary Chef qualification to propel me upwards more quickly. Also, I always like to challenge myself, whether it’s an apprenticeship, a competition or a project within my site. Therefore, I want to keep utilising these areas to continuously upskill and progress myself as a chef.

Loading component...