Ian Barry

Ian Barry

Ian Barry has been specially selected by the Head Judge (Rod Bowker) to be an expert judge for the Matchday Hospitality Awards. This judge has been chosen based upon their extensive knowledge and involvement in both the chef and hospitality industries, with over 40 years extensive experience and a passion for driving up standards. Please see their biography details below:

Biography

I developed a love for cooking after seeds were sown once I attended South Trafford College Manchester in the mid-seventies.
 
I commenced work at Lancashire Cricket Club as a  my way up the culinary chain to sous chef in the main restaurant, on match days over seeing the hospitality for some 1500 guest on test matches.
 
My culinary journey continued to unfold, with an unexpected and prestigious opportunity presented to myself. I was offered the esteemed position as sous chef within the DeVere Hotel group at the 4 star Mottram Hall Hotel in the late seventies.
 
The move to the West Midlands for my next challenge was at the 4 star Moor Hall Hotel in the early eighties as Executive Head Chef.
 
My experience was furthered by several years with Bass at their HQ in Burton on Trent as Chef Manager. Then followed many years with managing within contract catering and Nelson Hind where we were merged with Avenance Catering. After many great years of setting operational standards, I moved on to T & S catering in a similar position before my retirement.
 
I have won numerous Gold, Silver and Bronze Medals for Culinary Competitions medals at Salons Culinaire throughout the UK
 
A long-time member of The Midlands Association of Chefs which merged with the Chefs and Cooks Circle to form the British Culinary Federation.
 
My philosophy of food is Quality, Simple, Delicious and these values I believe are key to my culinary successes.
 
I am presently retired and enjoying life after the pressurised environment of contract catering.
 
My qualifications include –  
 OND Hotel and Catering
 HCIMA Professional Qualifications
 Further and Adult Education Teachers Certificate