Richard Roestorf was born in South Africa and moved to Dubai in 2011. Over the past 7 years he has been in the employ of a Dubai-based software house (TRASIX), working as its Chief Operating Officer.

In May 2021, shortly before relocating to Portugal in August, Richard became a member of the Chaîne, not only because of his love of good food and wine, but also for the spirit of camaraderie and the opportunity to meet people from all over the world, forging new and lasting friendships.

In November 2022, at the invitation of Bailli Délégué Paulo Amado, he became Bailli of Greater Lisbon 2. Shortly afterwards he joined the National Board as Chargé de Missions where he played an integral part in the organisation of Portugal’s 50th Anniversary Grand Chapitre which took place in Lisbon in February 2023.

He has now been promoted to the position of Chancelier. Richard’s key objectives, other than taking care of existing members, are to attract younger members to the Chaîne, to get more involved with the Jeunes Chefs Rôtisseurs and Jeunes Sommeliers competitions (both nationally and internationally), and to support local professionals.

For Richard, it is essential that young people join the Chaîne. He observed, “It’s the only way to guarantee the longevity of the association. We also need to offer greater support to our Professional members.”

He aspires to host the international competitions, namely the Jeunes Chefs Rôtisseurs and the Jeunes Sommeliers, in Portugal soon. You will not be surprised that Richard is already working to make this happen, possibly as early as 2025.

Richard considers Portugal a wonderful country and believes little is known internationally about what this beautiful country has to offer her visitors. He thinks the Chaîne could be a great platform to promote the country.