Adam Thomason returns to Compass to head up Wimbledon hospitality

Foodservice Catey-winning executive chef Adam Thomason has left the Genuine Dining Co after just one year in the role to return to the Compass Group.

He joined Compass' sports venue caterer Levy as executive head chef last week, and will oversee all catering at Wimbledon during the tennis championships, including in the Royal Box, Sky News Suite and Rosewater Pavilion.

Speaking exclusively to The Caterer, Thomason said “it was the opportunity to be involved in such a prestigious unit and to be dealing with real, top-end large scale events" that attracted him to the role.

“There isn’t a single event in the sporting calendar where you get to cook for the most incredible people, with the best ingredients served in the best way," he added. "Wimbledon's got such a feeling and presence about it and it’s just a pleasure to be here.”

Speaking about his priorities for the year ahead, Thomason continued: “The championships are in six months, so we’re setting all the menus now and concentrating on the quality of the ingredients we’re purchasing. Step two is developing and growing the team.”

A Levy spokesperson said: "We are delighted to welcome Adam Thomason back to the Compass family, working for Levy UK. He is an exceptional chef, and we have no doubt will bring great creativity and passion to his new role as Executive Head Chef at The Championships, Wimbledon. Thomason will report into Adam Fargin, Executive Chef at The Championships, Wimbledon, who was appointed for the 2020 tournament following his impressive tenure as Executive Head Chef during the 2019 Championships. Fargin has responsibility across the entire culinary estate at the All England Lawn Tennis Club.

"Thomason will look after the year-round business at the All England Lawn Tennis Club, including the Wingfield Café, Clubhouse and any bespoke events. During the 2020 Championships he will be responsible for the Keith Prowse hospitality facilities: Rosewater Pavilion and Skyview Suites, plus responsibility for VIP hospitality."

Thomason was crowned Chef of the Year (Private Site) at the 2018 Foodservice Cateys and is a holder of the Master of Culinary Arts (MCA) from the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts.

Meanwhile, Nina Mash will replace Thomason as executive chef at Genuine Dining Co. Mash was previously a development chef who contributed to establishing BaxterStorey in France and Belgium and has also worked in hotels.

Genuine Dining Co managing director Chris Mitchell said: “We are so excited about Nina joining the team. Her experience, talent with people and passion for good food made us realise immediately that she would fit right in with our Genuine family. We can’t wait to roll out some of the concepts she’s already working on.”

Mash added: “I am delighted to take on the role of executive chef for Genuine Dining Co. Their focus both on staff development and the drive to keep food local by using British suppliers sets the company apart in the marketplace. It really is a privilege to join such a talented, dedicated and innovative team.”