Executive Chef Willie Somers

Willie Somers' career in the Irish catering industry has spanned over 30 years.  Starting as an apprentice at the Royal Hibernian Hotel he quickly discovered that the catering trade provided him with a passion for life. 

"Becoming a chef was one of the best things that I ever did" Willie says in a recent interview.  "The buzz...the passion, its infectious.  Once you're in the business you're very likely to stay in it because the food industry and becoming a chef is a way of life".

Willie studied in the Dublin College of Catering where he did his London City & Guilds (706/1/2/3).  Having completed his apprenticeship he moved to Failte Ireland first as a Chef Lecturer and Food Production Instructor and was then promoted to Senior Consultant. 

"My time with Failte Ireland helped me to gain a real grasp of what it took to be a successful chef", Willie continues.  "As part of my job, I worked closely with many chefs in the industry helping them with production and menu and recipe development and compilation.  I saw what these people faced daily.  Together we worked to stretch their imaginations and expertise allowing them to become even more successful in their jobs". 

Willie moved to Unilever Food Solutions 16 years ago where he has worked with chefs throughout the country in his role as Executive Chef.