A LOOK BACK AT CHEF NETWORK IN 2016

This time last year Chef Network was still an idea.  IFSA has seen the need for a platform to bring chefs together. They decided to step up to the plate and ask chefs what they wanted. The idea of Chef Network was born.  In November 2015, focus groups of chefs came together in Dublin and Belfast to develop it’s mission, vision and objectives.  Chef Network - an open, inclusive platform connecting chefs online & offline, dedicated to professional development and education for chefs – launched in February 2016.

SINCE THE BEGINNING OF THE YEAR WE HAVE:

• Launched our website and mobile app
• Gone from 0 to almost 800 members
• Launched Chef Network Jobs Board and community discussion forums
• Held Chef Network gatherings in Dublin, Belfast, Galway, Mayo & Enniskillen
• Attended key industry events; Food on the Edge, La Rousse Killenure Country Fayre & Odaios Elements
• Launched ‘Chef’s Blog’ sponsored by Musgrave Marketplace
• Produced the first ‘Chef Skills’ video series on Pork Butchery: Nose to Tail, in association with Bord Bia
• Begun work for an important new ‘Charter for a Better Kitchen Workplace’
• Piloted the Chef Network Student Ambassador initiative
• Started appointing Chef Network ambassadors around the country
  
  

EARLY IN 2017 WE WILL BE READY TO LAUNCH SOME EXCITING INITIATIVES SUCH AS THE;

• Chef Network Gastronomy Club
• Chef Exchange & Stage programmes
• Chef workshops, masterclasses and educational events
  
  

The Chef Network Chef Advisory Council and Working groups are currently working on the strategy for the development of Chef Network. The potential is massive and the prospects are exciting. There is a huge amount of work ahead, but the support for the concept has been overwhelming. We are very grateful for the  amount of time, effort and commitment both chefs and others in the industry are giving to this project.
As always, we are happy to hear from anyone who wants to get involved.  We would like to take this opportunity to say a huge thanks to all of you who have joined us on the journey so far, and I invite those of you who are not yet part of Chef Network to join or get in touch.
Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas and look forward to working with you in 2017.
Ruth Hegarty
Head of Community – Chef Network
On behalf of the Chef Network Advisory Council, Chef Network Working Group and the Board of IFSA