Mark Sweeney

Mark Sweeney

Mark Sweeney 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

With a taste for adventure, Mark sweeney was born into a family with deep appreciation for food, Mark developed a love for cooking at an early age. The seeds were finally sown once equipped with a solid culinary education gained in the mid eighties at Barnstaple’s North Devon Catering College. Now armed and ready with a wealth of culinary knowledge and experience, Mark sought new challenges and opportunities and joined the Royal Air Force. From preparing meals for fellow servicemen and women feeding the masses to creating memorable dining experiences in challenging environments. Rising through the ranks over a course of Mark’s 23-year tenure with the RAF, his culinary prowess garnered recognition and acclaim, earning the respect and admiration of his colleagues.

As Marks culinary journey continued to unfold, an unexpected and prestigious opportunity presented itself. Mark was offered the esteemed position of personal chef to the Chief of the Air Staff, the highest-ranking officer in the Royal Air Force. Beyond the kitchen, Mark found himself immersed in the world of diplomatic engagements and high-profile events. His culinary expertise became an integral part of state dinners, official receptions, and international gatherings at Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle, Chevening house and Chequers to name a few.

Mark also has a long career on the competition stage both competing and judging. He represented the RAF and the Combined Services Culinary Arts Team at many Regional, National, and international events winning numerous awards. He is passionate about teaching the next Generation of Chefs and currently can take on or just simply advice service personnel embarking on their return to civilian life, please approach him.

Finishing his distinguished service career with an insatiable desire for new challenges, Mark embarked on a culinary adventure in the world of leading luxury hotels, The Grove, Rubens at The Palace, and Hotel 41 before joining The Ivy, a haven of style and unfaltering service setting the standard for British dining.

Today Mark is Director of Catering for a renowned film location catering company, Healthy Yummies. In this role, Mark orchestrates the culinary requirements of film crews, working tirelessly to create exceptional menus that cater to the diverse tastes and dietary needs of cast and crew members on set and location, with clients being Marvel, Netflix, Sky, Apple, Disney and Universal.

Marks Journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring chefs, highlighting the power of food in forging connections and creating unforgettable experiences.