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Paris, France, 4 November 2024 – The World Association of Chefs’ Societies (Worldchefs) is proud to announce the election of Chef Andy Cuthbert as its new President. Chef Andy was elected by the Presidents of Worldchefs’ 100+ Member National Associations, a testament to his dedication, leadership, and commitment to culinary professionals worldwide. Taking the helm from outgoing President Thomas Gugler, Chef Andy’s leadership marks a new chapter for Worldchefs as it continues its mission of uniting chefs globally and advancing culinary excellence.
Alongside Chef Cuthbert, a newly appointed Executive Committee and Board of Directors brings together a dynamic group of industry leaders dedicated to serving the international chef community.
President Andy Cuthbert: Open, Honest, Transparent
As President, I aim to be open, honest, and transparent, ensuring that we address the real challenges facing our industry. From supporting young chefs to enhancing educational outreach and championing sustainable practices, I am committed to elevating Worldchefs as the global voice of chefs. We have an incredible foundation built over 96 years, and together, with our diverse network, we’ll work to advance our industry for a brighter future.
Chef Andy Cuthbert, Worldchefs President
With over three decades in the industry, Chef Andy Cuthbert brings a wealth of experience, having shaped culinary standards in both fine dining and large-scale hotel operations worldwide. His career, which started humbly in Melbourne, Australia, saw him rise through the ranks at prestigious establishments, including Dubai’s Emirates Towers Hotel, where he managed 19 restaurants, helping establish the city as an international culinary destination. A central figure in the Emirates Culinary Guild and Worldchefs, including President of the Emirates Culinary Guild, Worldchefs Continental Director for the Africa Middle East region, and Chairman of the Worldchefs Congress Committee, Chef Andy has long been known for his commitment to the professional development of young chefs, culinary competitions, and the values of unity and excellence within the organization.
His vision for Worldchefs is rooted in a commitment to inclusivity, knowledge-sharing, and sustainable practices, which have earned him respect and admiration throughout the culinary world.
Reflecting on his new role, Chef Andy expressed his dedication to Worldchefs’ values and future growth: “I am honored to lead Worldchefs and build on the foundation of excellence, inclusivity, and camaraderie that defines our organization. Collaborating with member associations across countries presents an incredible opportunity to shape meaningful programs that serve our industry and the chefs who define it. I look forward to inspiring the next generation of culinary leaders through innovation, sustainability, and community.”
New Board of Directors: Leaders for a Borderless Vision
The newly elected Worldchefs Board is composed of accomplished culinary professionals representing regions of the globe. Each member brings invaluable expertise and a shared commitment to advancing the culinary arts.
WORLDCHEFS executive committee & BOARD OF DIRECTORS
- Andy Cuthbert – President
- Rick Stephen – Vice President
- Alain Hostert – Secretary General
- Kristine Hartviksen – Assistant Vice President
- Uwe Michael – Assistant Vice President
- Thomas Gugler – Past President
- Martin Kobald – Continental Director, Africa & Middle East
- Harry Linzmayer – Continental Director, Americas
- Willment Leong – Continental Director, Asia
- Neil Thomson – Continental Director, Europe North
- Mike Pansi – Continental Director, Europe Central
- George Damianou – Continental Director, Europe South
- Peter Wright – Continental Director, Pacific Rim
Expressing his enthusiasm, Mike Pansi, Continental Director for Central Europe, shared:
“I’m excited to take on my new role and join the newly formed Worldchefs Board. During our first meeting, President Andy and his team demonstrated the potential of fresh perspectives and innovative ideas. I’m eager to work alongside my fantastic colleagues to serve as an advocate for our industry and the national associations in Europe.”
Mike Pansi, Continental Director for Central Europe
With this leadership team, Worldchefs remains committed to fostering professional growth, culinary development, and education across its global network. The new board, alongside Chef Cuthbert, will champion initiatives that will continue its legacy of promoting international standards and creating opportunities for chefs of all levels to thrive.
For more information on Worldchefs, visit www.worldchefs.org.
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About Worldchefs
The World Association of Chefs’ Societies, known as Worldchefs, is a federation made up of 110 national chef associations. A leading voice in the hospitality industry, Worldchefs carries years of history since its founding in 1928 at the Sorbonne by the venerable Auguste Escoffier.
Representing a mobilized international membership of culinary professionals, Worldchefs is committed to advancing the profession and leveraging the influence of the chef jacket for the betterment of the industry and humanity at large.
Worldchefs is dedicated to raising culinary standards and social awareness through these core focus areas:
- Education – Worldchefs offers support for education and professional development through the landmark Worldchefs Academy online training program, a diverse network of Worldchefs Education Partners and curriculum, and the world’s first Global Culinary Certification recognizing on-the-job skillsin hospitality;
- Networking – Worldchefs connects culinary professionals around the world through their online community platform and provides a gateway for industry networking opportunities through endorsed events and the biennial Worldchefs Congress & Expo;
- Competition – Worldchefs sets global standards for competition rules, provides Competition Seminars and assurance of Worldchefs Certified Judges, and operates the prestigious Global Chefs Challenge;
- Humanitarianism & Sustainability – Worldchefs Feed the Planet and World Chefs Without Borders programs relieve food poverty, deliver crisis support, and promote sustainability across the globe.
Media Contact
Olivia Ruszczyk
Email: [email protected]
