Meet Farm Shop & Deli Retailer Awards judge Ian Nottage, Head of Food at Sysco Speciality Group and owner of IN Food Consulting
We caught up with Ian for a quick Q&A session, read on to find out more about Ian and what he's looking for in a winning entry.
Who are you? Where are you from? And what do you do?
My name is Ian Nottage and I’m from Kent (originally from East London), I am Head of Food at Sysco Speciality Group and owner of IN Food Consulting
What was your first job?
My first proper job was as a commis chef for Gardner Merchant at Lloyds bank in Pall Mall but I did have a job in a butchers when I was at school as well as a nice little sideline baking and selling celebration cakes to friends and family.
What have been your career highlights so far?
I have been very lucky and had many career highlights working with some great chefs and meeting fantastic people, but probably the one that sticks out is winning the Craft Guild of Chefs Development Chef of the year award way back in 2005. Also delighted that 2 of my ‘proteges’ went on to win the same award in later years.
What are you looking for in a winning entry for the Awards?
I’m personally looking for someone that is going above and beyond the norm. an entry that is genuinely sustainable and inventive as well as offering great produce, great service and a great customer experience. Commendations from genuine customers really help as for me that is social proof.
Why should retailers enter these Awards?
It’s a great endorsement to be able to tell your customers that you have been recognised by industry experts and peers. Also it’s a great way for them and their teams to know that all the hard work they’re putting into their business is recognised and worth it.
What is the best piece of advice you have ever been given?
‘Be a sponge’ – listen to every piece of advice (you don’t always have to take it), listen to others’ opinions and learn as much as you can every time you can. Never stop learning
What are you most thankful for?
My family...and my horse
What is your motto in life?
Have a laugh!
If you were stranded on a dessert island and could have an infinite supply of farm shop/deli goods, one is sweet, one is savoury, one is a drink – what would you choose?
Very, very difficult question.
Sweet – probably a great quality chocolate, and probably milk (purists don’t shoot me!!)
Savoury – a fantastic artisan cheeseboard (can’t choose one specific cheese, too much great stuff out here)
Drink – A good craft beer / real ale (or better a selection of them)
What would people be surprised to know about you?
I once performed on the stage at The Royal Opera House, Covent Garden with Placido Domingo!
Which celebrity would you most like to work with and why?
Although they are no longer with us I would have loved to have met/worked with Anthony Bourdain – a true legend.
Meet our full judges line-up for 2022 here.
