Legends of the Bristol food scene join The Key
In April Olly Swayne, our Commercial Lead, relinquished his project management role, due to increased professional commitments, which meant recruiting to replace him.
Conscious of all of the hard work yet to do in developing and launching the cafe, we realised we needed a very credible, experienced and commercially minded individual, with broad hospitality experience to join the TKUP team and continue to drive the project forwards.
After an exhaustive search we are delighted to announce that we have ended up with not one, but two legends of the Bristol food scene: Simon Green and Tom Green.
Simon and Tom are leading influencers and entrepreneurs and will act as partners, consultants and project managers, working with the Board of Trustees, HMPs Bristol. Leyhill and Eastwood Park, the Ministry of Justice and The Restore Trust, over the next 6-12 months to deliver The Key Café project and get the doors open by early 2024.
About Simon
Simon is a seasoned professional with a rich and diverse background in the hospitality industry spanning close to four decades. His journey began as a passionate chef and has evolved into a respected business owner and consultant.
Having been an integral part of the culinary landscape, Simon's legacy is deeply intertwined with the evolution of the hospitality sector. He played a pioneering role in the concept of 'gastro pubs,' a trend that has become a hallmark of modern dining experiences. In the early nineties, this approach laid the foundation for what we now recognise as a fundamental aspect of the industry.
His move to Bristol to open and head up the kitchen at Riverstation was followed by his family's restaurant in Redland, Greens’ Dining room, achieving a bib gourmand from the Michelin guide, the first for the city.
Beyond his accomplishments within the culinary realm, Simon's journey has taken him across the globe, immersing himself in the cultures, cuisines, and ways of life in South East Asia, The Middle East, and the Antipodes. These experiences have not only enriched his personal growth but have also provided him with invaluable insights that he brings to his professional endeavours.
Simon believes that the responsibility to impart wisdom and skills is inherent to being a responsible citizen and his collaboration with The Key Unlock Potential, reflects his dedication to making a positive impact on individuals caught in cycles of adversity and a genuine commitment to making a difference
About Tom
Tom’s culinary journey commenced when, at the age of 14, as he secured a two-week work opportunity at Le Manoir au Quat’Saisons – an experience that broadened his horizons in ways he could never have anticipated. The bustling kitchens of Le Manoir exposed him to an immersive world of flavours, aromas, heat, commitment, and camaraderie.
This pivotal experience kindled a newfound sense of purpose within him, propelling Tom toward a future as a chef.
After stints in London, he found himself in Bristol, joining forces with Michael Caines to establish his restaurant. Bristol, with its artistic vibrancy, distinct food culture, and uniqueness, instantly captivated him, ultimately becoming his cherished home.
Having worked in the kitchens of prominent restaurants in the UK, mastering French, Italian, and modern European cuisines, he ventured to Australia and Southeast Asia, broadening his culinary repertoire.
These experiences laid the foundation for his first enterprise – 'The Flavour Smith.' It brought fine dining to clients' doorsteps, offering a dining experience in the comfort of their homes. The business flourished, expanding into event catering for both private and corporate sectors, including King Charles III among multiple other distinguished clients.
A new chapter arrived by joining Fosters Events as their Executive Chef Director, elevating their culinary offerings, and securing prestigious contracts including The Bristol Old Vic theatre and The Box Museum Plymouth.
At the turn of the decade, he resumed his own enterprise – Chef Tom Green LTD. This endeavour allowed him to indulge in his true passion, creating personalised culinary experiences for a diverse clientele in both private and corporate spheres.
Tom has worked with many charities, championing their causes and is an Ambassador for the Burnt Chef Project. It was a natural step to work with The Key Unlock Potential, to support the charities mission, to enable a second chance through the Key Café.
Driving things forwards
We’re thrilled to have Tom and Simon on board with our mission, and are excited to drive plans for the café forward with their invaluable help.
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