Sunil Varma, a head chef at leading independent caterer bartlett mitchell, has been named FSM 2018 Unit Chef of the Year.

Varma has worked at the company at a central London contract since 2014, during which time he has transformed the offer by delivering exceptional innovation and team and customer engagement – success that saw him awarded bartlett mitchell’s own internal Innovation award in 2016.

The facility caters for more than 1,000 customers and, as the only chef on a team of seven, Varma led food innovation strategy at the site.

He personally trains the team on food production and concepts, and through a collaborative approach to development, he involves team members from all disciplines in menu design.

During Varma’s tenure, staff retention has been at an all-time high, further endorsing his management style and approach.

Varma has introduced new concepts that have led to dramatic sales increases, including some that have since been adopted by BM across it’s businesses.

Varma’s engagement with customers, has been especially commended. In the last year, he has collaborated individually on new dishes with customers – sometimes going as far as naming them after them.

Francois Gautreaux, Managing Director at bartlett mitchell, said: β€œSunil absolutely loves what he does and that passion clearly shines through. He plays to his culinary and leadership strengths while also finding the time to complete valuable charity and community work.

β€œWe are incredibly proud that he has won this well-deserved FSM Award.”

Now in their eighth year, the FSM Awards recognise those outstanding individuals who have made a huge contribution to the catering industry.

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