Hilton apprentice, Sam Leatherby, wins Bake Off:The Professionals.

Junior Sous Chef at London Hilton on Park Lane, Sam Michael Leatherby realised his passion for cooking at an early age, joining Hilton straight out of school. Chef Leatherby secured an apprenticeship with Hilton, which involved a six month placement at Hilton London Heathrow. Having demonstrated a high level of success, Leatherby was offered an opportunity to apply to join the team at the London Hilton on Park Lane. Having completed a series of tests, he successfully secured the placement and was promoted from apprentice to Junior Sous Chef.

Now with Hilton for eight and a half years, Chef Leatherby has first developed his skills in hot kitchen, but his talent in the art of Pastry was soon spotted by Executive Chef Anthony Marshall. Chef Leatherby is passionate about maintaining a high standard of service with every dish and achieving that “wow” factor that guests expect from one of Hilton’s most iconic London properties.

Always keen to express his creativity, Chef Leatherby enjoys creating showpieces and new, never-seen style desserts. Beginning his process with flavours that suit the season, Leatherby carefully crafts his desserts, ensuring that they can be produced on a large scale. Relating that teamwork is one of his secrets to success, Chef Leatherby always seeks out his Executive Chef for a tasting, so that any necessary adjustments can be made and the desserts can be perfected. Sam has thrived at Hilton since joining and recently won Bake Off: The Professionals in partnership with Emmanuel Bonneau, Executive Pastry Chef at Hilton London on Park Lane.