Royal Navy chefs aim for glory at national cookery competition

Over two days (18-19 November) the finest culinary talent from across the services will descend on the Public Sector Expo at the National Agricultural and Exhibition Centre near Coventry to showcase their abilities as part of Exercise Joint Caterer.

The chefs will produce world-class dishes and menus, presenting their creativity, skill and professionalism, and serve them to a judging panel of experts who will decide who is the cream of the crop.

The Royal Navy team has been at Worthy Down this week making last adjustments and adding final flourishes as they head to Coventry hoping to improve on their runners-up finish at the last competition in 2023. 

Workshops, mentoring sessions and mock competitions have taken place over several months to get the team into shape.

A mix of new faces and experienced competitors make up the Royal Navy Culinary Art Teams, bringing a “fresh energy, ideas and passion,” according to team captain Chief Petty Officer Shaun Willis.

He said: “It’s fantastic to see so many new applications this year, new creativity, fresh enthusiasm, and a willingness to step out of comfort zones.

“For many, this may be their first experience competing in this sector, but I can assure you it will be both rewarding and enjoyable. 

“It’s a chance to gain valuable professional development, build confidence, and open doors to future opportunities.”

The Royal Navy has a strong track record at Joint Caterer, with previous competitors having represented the Service and the Combined Services Culinary Arts Team (CSCAT) on the international stage – at the Culinary World Cup and Culinary Olympics. 

Their experience and mentorship will once again be invaluable in 2025, as the Navy aims to build on its previous success.

Chefs are selected, recommended, or volunteer to represent themselves and their service, with team leaders guiding and mentoring them through the preparation process to ensure peak performance on the day.

“Feeling nervous or uncertain is completely normal,” the CPO Willis added. “It shows that you care. Even the most seasoned chefs still feel that same buzz before every event, and that energy is what drives excellence.”

As Exercise Joint Caterer 2025 approaches, the message from CPO Willis is clear: “give it your all, stay focused, and showcase the very best of Royal Navy Catering Services.”