Dnata, one of the world’s largest air services providers, is further investing in its culinary catering capability with the appointment of globally-experienced chef Stephen Templeton to the newly created post of global head of culinary for its international catering division.

In his role, Templeton will be responsible for managing all aspects of food presentations, hospitality, kitchen design and product development.

Templeton brings over 30 years of hospitality and culinary experience to dnata, most recently leading rhubarb Food Design, one of the UK’s leading hospitality groups, as its director of culinary. He previously held executive roles in high profile resorts and hotels, including the world-renowned Mount Nelson Hotel, the Sun City Resort and Casino, Spier Wine Estate and Resort in South Africa, Harrods of London and The Great Eastern Hotel in the UK.

The expansion of dnata’s catering leadership team underlines its commitment to culinary excellence, at a time when the organisation of more than 9,000 catering employees is rapidly expanding. Dnata recently announced its acquisition of Qantas Airways’ catering division in Australia, its planned expansion into Canada, and further bold expansion plans across North America.

As the world’s leading culinary caterer, dnata currently operates 63 catering facilities in 12 countries producing over 320,000 world-class meals every day.

”We pride ourselves on our culinary capability across the globe and our ability to deliver authentic cuisine for our customers and their customers. Stephen’s experience is second-to-none and his unwavering focus on perfection will undoubtedly flow through to the product our customers receive,” said David Loft, chief commercial officer for dnata’s catering division.

He added: “As we rapidly grow our North America network over the coming 12 months, Stephen will be invaluable in delivering excellence to our current and future customers.”

Templeton, who has spent the past month getting to know dnata’s customers and global teams, said: “Dnata is the undoubted leader in in-flight culinary products and services, and it’s an extremely exciting time to be joining the team. Having spent the past month getting to know the business, I’ve been hugely impressed with the diversity and authenticity across our kitchens and our ability to innovate. I’m looking forward to the challenge of working alongside our experienced chefs to take our product and that of our customers to the next level.” - TradeArabia News Service