Alan Colley

Consultant Chef and Foodie

Alan’s a born and bred Geordie who, after leaving catering college worked as a Commis Chef in the Scottish Borders moving around the area with my first Head Chef before returning back to Newcastle. After working in two large local hotels he then travelled down to London with the aim of learning more about a higher level of food presentation. Returning home in 1992 he then worked for five years as a Chef, progressing through to Unit Manager at Newcastle University.

Whilst working at the University Alan became interested in sales, however his passion will always be food. He’s travelled around the country and has been very fortunate to see and taste some of the most amazing local produce available, building an enviable network of contacts over his 20+ years in the business.

For the last eight years he’s been part of a competition involving college students. Watching them learn and passing on knowledge gives him so much pleasure as without talented young chefs coming through and the hours of commitment given by lecturers we would certainly struggle within the hospitality industry.

In 2018 Alan launched a similar event north of the border with great success, ably support by everyone at Scottish Chefs who share his passion and drive for chefs to work with great ingredient and showcase young talent.