I joined the Hastings Group back in November 1996, starting off my career as a commis chef at the Europa Hotel. From there I gained invaluable experience and skills over the years, progressing steadily within the hotel. I was eventually promoted to Head Chef of the Causerie Restaurant, and then in 2014 I was offered an exciting opportunity to become Executive Head Chef at the recently renovated Hastings Ballygally Castle Hotel.

At Ballygally Castle, I manage a very busy kitchen catering for tourists, wedding receptions, and banquets, offering specialised menus that really reflect the unique character of the hotel. I love creating memorable dining experiences, from themed Game of Thrones Afternoon Teas to full Banquet Dinners that really bring the castle setting to life.

The variety and the scale of what we do is something I truly enjoy. Over the years I’ve had the privilege of cooking for some incredible people – including Hillary Clinton, Katy Perry, and Bruno Mars – and I even catered for the MTV Music Awards After Party and the cast of Game of Thrones. Hastings Hotels has given me opportunities I could never have imagined when I started out as a commis chef.

I want guests to know that every menu I create is crafted with care and real attention to the experience we’re delivering. From an intimate afternoon tea or a grand banquet, I put the same passion into every dish, and when you’re cooking in a place as special as Ballygally Castle, that’s not hard to do.