Michael Kitts, director of culinary, The Emirates Academy of Hospitality Management. Michael Kitts, director of culinary, The Emirates Academy of Hospitality Management.

2. Michael Kitts

Director of culinary, The Emirates Academy of Hospitality Management

Kitts joined The Emirates Academy of Hospitality Management (EAHM), part of Jumeirah Group, in 2001 as a lecturer and executive chef and worked his way up through the ranks. He is involved with all culinary and F&B activities related to The Emirates Academy of Hospitality Management including course content, electives, external commitments, F&B competitions and consultancy — while being responsible for shaping the talent of the yearly in-take of students (40-60 per trimester). One of Kitts’ highlights in 2016 was mentoring Gabriela Hristova in the Young Chef Olympiad 2016, which was held in India. Out of 52 competing culinary students, she came in second, taking home the silver medal. As EAHM's reputation continues to go from strength to strength, Kitts remains very involved in Dubai’s culinary scene. He prides himself on his ability to motivate, inspire and build up team spirit, which he knows is paramount in the development of successful businesses and the careers of good chefs.

Bite-sized facts:

Number of years in the F&B industry: 41

Number of years with this company: 16

Number of years in this role: 12

Number of years working in the Middle East: 16

Nationality: British

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