Derek Johnson

Derek is currently the Deputy Chair of the National Association of Care Catering, a post he has held for seven years. He is employed by Leeds City Council as a Principal Catering Manager managing the community meals service and providing catering expertise to the residential and day care establishments. Prior to coming to Leeds over 17 years ago, he worked for two other local authorities. He also has experience of private sector catering in the travel sector and public houses.

He has held numerous positions in the NACC, both regionally and nationally. He was recognised by his peers in 2001 when he won the Cost Sector Caterer Social Caterer of the Year Award. He is the Organiser of the Care Cook of the Year Competition, editor of the Catercare Yearbook and Co –ordinator of National Meals on Wheels Week. He has been involved in reviewing the industry standard - the Recommended Standard for Community Meals Document, and in developing a Menu Planning and Special Diets Manual for Care Homes.  Derek also sits on the board of Healthcare Caterers International, a group of like minded organisations from around the globe.