Stacey Dacosta
March 6, 2025
News

Gemma Bridges is a chef with a love for delicious food and a mission to shake up kitchen culture.  Her journey is nothing short of inspiring, starting with peeling onions in her mum’s pub to leading a team of talented tastemakers.

Taking the reins as Head Chef at our client, Saïd Business School, 17 years ago to making history as the first female to join BaxterStorey’s UK Food Team as Regional Culinary Lead, Gemma’s path is a trailblazing one!

We caught up with her to talk about her journey, her new role and what’s next.

How did you get into cooking?

It all started with my mum. She was a chef and Sundays at our house were all about big family roasts. At 14, I got my first taste of the kitchen as a kitchen porter in her pub. From there, I worked in hotels and event catering before landing in workplace hospitality. I’ve been in the industry ever since and nearly two decades later, here I am at BaxterStorey. No formal qualifications, just learning on the job and working my way up!

What excites you most about your new role?

Starting a new challenge! Getting to know the chefs in the South East region and helping them grow excites me. People development is important to me, and I’m passionate about championing our incredible talent here. I want to build on the strong team already in place and set the standard for excellence. Kitchens should be places where chefs feel inspired, supported and able to push their creativity. A happy chef is a creative chef!

What challenges have you faced as a woman in hospitality?

Plenty. From sexism to being underestimated, to outright hostility. I’ve had to prove myself more times than I can count. But things are changing. Businesses are more committed than ever to making sure the next generation of female chefs are fully supported and valued from the very start of their careers.

You’re a co-chair for RISE, our inclusion network. Why is being part of this important to you?

Because culture matters. RISE gives women the confidence and platform they need to step up, and we’ve achieved so much in a short amount of time. A major milestone for us was introducing the game-changing 24-week fully paid maternity leave policy. We also hold listening workshops to help shape our priorities and drive change. One key project that came from these discussions is the Inclusive Kitchen Culture project, which focuses on creating respectful, inclusive and inspiring spaces in the kitchen, as well as having those tough but necessary conversations.

What’s next for you?

Pushing creative food ideas, developing new talent and making sure the South East region is leading the way. I want to help bring more people into the industry and show them that kitchens are for everyone.

What advice would you give to aspiring female chefs looking to follow in your footsteps?

Surround yourself with people who are there to encourage you, provide guidance and help you develop. Being open-minded and driven by creativity are also key qualities to keep in mind!

As she steps into her new role, Gemma is redefining what it means to be a chef. She’s boldly challenging the norm and leading with purpose, and we’re here for it!