Totally Local Company – Welcomes our new Menu Steering Committee
We are excited to introduce our new Menu Steering Committee, a dedicated team formed to bring a more collaborative approach to the creation of our future menus. Our goal is simple: to ensure that every dish we serve reflects the communities we cook for and meets the highest standards of quality and care.
The committee is made up of our Food Development Chef, Rebecca Sly, and four inspiring Cooks in Charge from across Greater Manchester. Together, they bring a wealth of knowledge, passion, and a shared belief that, as the saying goes, “It takes a village to raise a child.” Their collective expertise and keen interest in food and menu development will help guide us in crafting menus that truly make a difference.
Our new Menu Steering Committee Members:
Rebecca Sly – Food Development Chef.
Rebecca Sly joined our catering team in Summer 2024, bringing with her expertise in culinary arts and child nutrition. She holds a Culinary Arts Diploma from the Culinary Institute of Canada and a Diploma in Child Nutrition.
Her career in school food began as a School Chef at her daughter’s school, where she developed a deep passion for nutrition and its impact on children’s health and learning.
Rebecca has since built a distinguished career in the food and school nutrition sector, including roles such as Executive Chef to the Lieutenant Governor of Prince Edward Island, and School Food Coordinator for the Government of Prince Edward Island and Chef Instructor.
Before her role with TLC, she served for three years as Programs Coordinator for the Breakfast Club of Canada, where her role was pivotal in advancing breakfast programs and food access initiatives across Northern and Atlantic Canada.
In March this year, Rebecca was appointed as a Food Ambassador at The Food Foundation, advocating for healthy and equitable school meals to ensure all children have access to healthy, nutritious food at school.
Anthony Noden – Cook in Charge.
Anthony Noden brings over 25 years of experience in the food and catering industry, starting with 11 years as a cook for the Salvation Army, where he developed his skills in preparing nutritious meals for adults.
In 1996 he started work at Bradshaw Hall Primary School, the same school that his son attended, which gave him the opportunity to work during term times.
Initially his role as Cook in Charge was serving 70 children per day, but this has increased to 300 children daily, which showcases his dedication and skill.
Anthony’s diverse experience includes overseeing send-out meals, mentoring new team members, and supervising cooks in schools across Stockport and Greater Manchester. His commitment to the provision of high food standards and excellent service is evident in the lasting impact he has on colleagues. Former monitors have often said they could tell which cooks had worked with Anthony, a testament to his expertise.
His passion is providing children with the best possible lunchtime experience, and he brings invaluable leadership and insight to the new Menu Steering Committee.
Gillian Harvey – Cook in Charge.
Gillian Harvey has been a dedicated team member in our catering team for over 10 years. She initially started work in the kitchen as a General Catering Assistant and stepped up to Cook in Charge two years ago.
Her passion for food and making others happy shines through in everything she does. Gillian loves providing nutritious, delicious meals for the children at her school, and there’s nothing more rewarding to her than seeing their smiles when they enjoy their favourite lunch. She takes immense pride in the presentation of her dishes, always striving for excellence in both taste and visual appeal.
Outside of work, Gillian’s love for cooking and baking extends to her family, where she enjoys preparing meals and treats.
She also likes to keep active and enjoys cold water swimming and walking. Her kindness and professionalism make her an invaluable asset to the team, and her dedication to food quality and service makes her an excellent addition to our new Menu Steering Committee, where she will continue to contribute her expertise and passion for children’s dining experiences.
Liam Muldoon – Cook in Charge.
With over 25 years in the culinary industry, Liam Muldoon brings extensive experience from roles such as Sous Chef at San Carlos restaurant in Selfridges, Manchester City Football Club, and working internationally for the Ministry of Defence in Germany.
Liam works at Holy Name Primary School where he consistently goes above and beyond to deliver exceptional school meals as part of our service. He also launched the schools breakfast club and has supported other schools at short notice.
Liam is known for his calm, organised approach and dedication to developing others. In joining the Menu Steering Committee, Liam looks forward to using his expertise to help create menus that meet the needs of the schools he supports.
Marc Mole – Cook in Charge.
Marc Mole joined our catering team this year and he is a Chef of French origin with a background in architecture, hospitality, and culinary arts. Raised with a strong focus on fresh, home-cooked meals, Marc emphasises the importance of combining food culture and nutrition, especially for children’s growth.
After 20 years in architecture, Marc earned his Chef qualification from Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts in 2015. He worked as Pastry Chef at La Piquette in D.C. and mentored students at his culinary school.
With over ten years in hospitality and experience as a sales Manager for a produce company in Maryland, Marc has extensive knowledge of food sourcing, cost management, and menu development.
Inducted as a Disciple of Auguste Escoffier in 2021, Marc brings a wealth of expertise and passion for sustainable, fresh food to the Menu Steering Committee.
We are very excited to see the impact our talented team will have in shaping the future of our menus!
We wish our team colleagues the very best of luck as members of the Menu Steering Committee and we will keep you updated on any future news and developments.
