Stephen steps up to take the helm at Lough Erne

Stephen Holland has taken the reins as head chef of the five-star Lough Erne Resort in Co Fermanagh.

The Dungannon native takes over from Noel McMeel who plans to pursue other projects after 15 years with the resort.

Stephen, who started off as a kitchen porter at a local hotel at the age of 13, said: “From then on, I was determined to become a chef. I studied in South West College which was an amazing experience – I have very fond memories of my time there and the learning was second to none. In fact, I still use and practice many of the skills I learnt there today.”

After leaving college Stephen set about expanding his own culinary horizons, first with work for events company, before travelling the world and cooking in high end kitchens in the US, Australia, Dubai and New Zealand.

“I always encourage any young chef to travel as much as possible,” he told LCN

“During that time, I was privileged to experience diverse cultures and learn many new skills -As a chef you have a world of food waiting to be discovered and amazing people behind the food to learn from.”

Stephen, who started with Lough Erne over 12 years ago, added: “It has been an incredible journey, both professionally and personally,” he explained. “Not only have I cooked for world leaders including Barack Obama and David Cameron, but I also met my amazing wife Rachael here who also works at Lough Erne.

“The best thing about it for me is the people. I work with a great team and am lucky to receive exceptional support from both the management team and the owners. I feel extremely fortunate to work at such an amazing resort.”

Speaking about leaving the luxury resort, Noel, above, said his successor was more than up to the challenge.

“I know the time is right to embark on the next chapter of my life,” he explained.

“Lough Erne Resort has been my home for nearly 15 years: it’s been an incredibly important part of my life.

“I came here to film the second year of The Great British Menu and fell in love with the place. I just knew in my heart I wanted to work there. There’s something truly magical about it.

“I genuinely believe Stephen is someone who is not only well educated and highly experienced, but highly skilled, well respected in the culinary world, a trusted mentor and an inspirational leader for his team of chefs.”