José Andrés

José Andrés is one of the most influential culinary figures of his generation and a compelling keynote speaker whose work spans food, leadership and humanitarian action. A Spanish-American chef, restaurateur and global advocate, José is best known as the Founder of World Central Kitchen, an organisation that has transformed how the world responds to crisis through food. Twice named one of ‘Time Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People’ and awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, he speaks with authority shaped by action, not theory. His keynotes combine creativity, moral clarity and lived experience, drawing from decades spent building businesses, leading teams under pressure and delivering impact at global scale.

Born in Asturias and raised in Barcelona, José entered culinary school at the age of fifteen and quickly showed an instinct for innovation. His early career was shaped by formative years at El Bulli, working under Ferran Adrià at one of the world’s most experimental kitchens. That experience instilled discipline, curiosity and a willingness to challenge convention. After completing military service as a naval cook, José moved to the United States in his early twenties, navigating a new culture through food. Early roles in New York refined his technique, but Washington DC became the proving ground for his ideas. Leading the kitchen at Jaleo, he introduced tapas as a social, shared dining experience, helping to popularise Spanish cuisine in America while learning how culture, hospitality and business intersect.

José’s career achievements extend far beyond restaurants. He is Founder and Executive Chairman of José Andrés Group, operating nearly forty restaurants across the United States and beyond, including minibar by José Andrés, which holds two Michelin stars. He is a New York Times bestselling author, Emmy Award-winning television personality, and respected educator who has taught at Harvard University and George Washington University. In two thousand ten, he founded World Central Kitchen, which has since served hundreds of millions of meals in response to natural disasters, humanitarian crises and conflict zones worldwide. His leadership has been recognised with honours including the National Humanities Medal, James Beard Foundation Humanitarian of the Year, the Princess of Asturias Concordia Prize, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom. He also founded the Global Food Institute at George Washington University and served as Co-Chair of the United States President’s Council on Sports, Fitness and Nutrition.

As a keynote speaker, José brings urgency, warmth and credibility. He speaks on leadership in times of crisis, creativity and innovation, building values-led organisations, humanitarian response, food policy and the role of empathy in decision-making. His talks matter because they connect business outcomes with human responsibility, showing how decisive leadership can coexist with compassion. Audiences gain practical insight alongside inspiration, learning how empowering local communities and acting with speed and integrity can drive lasting change. José leaves audiences energised, challenged and ready to lead with purpose.