Numerous experts in the food and beverage sector have received extraordinary recognition for their exceptional contributions to the field. Erhan Afacan, a globally renowned executive chef, is one such example. The significance of experts like Erhan cannot be overstated since they oversee every area involved in food preparation.
Award-winning Erhan has more than twenty years of experience managing all aspects of culinary operations, such as cost control, quality assurance, menu development, and staff management. He has excelled in food preparation, concentrating on leadership and kitchen management.
His extensive career includes world-class dining experiences throughout Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and the US with prestigious international companies like Marriott International, IHG Hotels & Resorts, Dusit Hotels & Resorts, and Rixos Hotels.
The Sheraton Annaba Hotel in Algeria, the Doha Marriott Hotel, the Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi, the Dusit Doha Hotel, and the Crown Plaza West Bay Doha are just a few of the prestigious hotels where he has held executive chef positions over his illustrious career.
Erhan is currently working at Doha’s Accor Rixos Gulf Hotel. His ability to efficiently manage his everyday responsibilities demonstrates his exceptional leadership and culinary skills.
Leadership & Culture Building
In addition to setting an example for hygiene, communication, and time management, he inspires teams by mentoring rather than ordering, fostering a culture of respect, learning, and cooperation.
Culinary Innovation and Menu Design
He produces unique experiences like chef’s tables, live stations, and theatrical displays, as well as sustainable, Instagram-worthy, and seasonally relevant cuisine. In addition to embracing global trends like 3D-printed components, plant-based fermented fusion, and wellness-focused menus, he continuously experiments with molecular components, textures, flavor pairings, and modern plating.
Client-Focused Mindset
He engages with visitors to get their opinions, create personalized experiences, and foster loyalty. In order to create unforgettable experiences, he customizes meals for VIPs and events while maintaining flexibility for dietary requirements, allergies, and cultural preferences.
Business & Strategy Focus
He examines P&Ls, labor ratios, and daily food consumption statistics while striking a balance between innovation and food cost control, yield management, and revenue. Regarding marketing, seasonal events, and brand positioning, he collaborates closely with F&B directors. In order to optimize both flavor and cost, he uses sustainable and local ingredients.
Tech-Driven Operations
He uses digital kitchen management systems for inventory, prep lists, recipes, and SOPs and apps for staff scheduling, ordering, and HACCP logs. He also incorporates AI technologies (such as ChatGPT!) to swiftly create menus, reports, or SOPs.
Innovative Media Exposure
In addition to appearing on social media and at culinary events, he collaborates with the marketing team on chef branding, food photography, reels, live demos, and PR activations. He organizes collaborations and cooking classes.
Erhan’s notable achievements include being appreciated by the International Olympic Committee for his exceptional culinary services during the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia. He has a strong academic background. He is a hotel management bachelor’s degree holder. Cornell University just certified him as a Strategic Leader.
There are too many achievements for Erhan to mention them all here. It would not be incorrect to suggest that he has emerged as one of the top food and beverage professionals.