Role Overview
Mihail Zdravkov
Managing Director & Executive Chef
Personal Statement
Internationally accomplished Executive Chef and Director with extensive experience across fine dining, Michelin-starred establishments, 5-star hotels, and large-scale global events. Recognised for leading high-performance teams, delivering innovative culinary concepts, and maintaining exceptional standards in quality, presentation, and food safety.
A strategic leader with a proven ability to develop talent, manage complex operations, and create memorable gastronomic experiences at the highest level. Passionate about culinary excellence, cultural exchange, and advancing the global culinary profession through mentorship, competition, and education.
Nationality: Bulgarian-British
Skills
Core Expertise
Fine Dining, Michelin & Rosette Standards
Menu Development (À la carte, tasting, seasonal, gala & events)
International Cuisine (French, Italian, Mediterranean, Global)
Leadership & Operations
Team leadership (35+ staff)
Budgeting, cost control & labour planning
High-volume & VIP event execution
Compliance & Training
HACCP, food safety & allergen compliance
Chef training, mentoring & competition preparation
Education & Training:
Bachelor’s Degree in Food Technology (Meat and Fish) University of Food Technology, Plovdiv
Bachelor’s Degree in Culinary Industry Management Le Cordon Bleu & Birkbeck University London
Level 4 Award in Food Safety
NVQ Level 3 – Professional Qualification
Food Safety & Hygiene (Level 3) Food Allergens Certification
Centro Culinary Cultura, Mexico – Intensive Culinary Training Electrolux Professional Training – Advanced Kitchen Equipment
Languages:
Language | Understanding | Speaking | Writing |
Bulgarian | C2 | C2 | C2 |
English | C2 | C2 | C1 |
Macedonian | C1 | C1 | C1 |
Croatian | C1 | C1 | B2 |
Serbian | B2 | B2 | B1 |
Russian | B2 | B2 | A2 |
Greek | B2 | B2 | A1 |
German | A1 | A1 | A1 |
Professional Contributions & Recognition
• International culinary judge and president within a global chefs’ organisation
• Judge and participant in international culinary competitions worldwide
• Mentor to 60+ chefs achieving international awards and recognition
• Featured in media, culinary publications, and guest chef appearances
• Active in charitable initiatives, including culinary support for homeless communities
• Organiser of international culinary competitions and professional training seminars
• Advocate for innovation, gastronomy, and cross-cultural culinary exchange
