With the industry still recovering from the staffing impacts post COVID, finding the next generation of chefs and front of house to take the industry forward is largely charged to our educators.

CEO Brad Bennett prides himself on honouring that responsibility with every student who steps through his doors at his training institute. He is a Chef, Leader, Mentor and Motivator. Most importantly a role model for both his industry and students.

We wanted to understand why his institute is so successful with one of the highest placement rates. What makes him tick?

Dane Richards
Bailli of New South Wales

For those who may not be familiar with Lé Culinaire Hospitality Institute, can you talk about the point of difference you provide your students?
At Lé Culinaire, we inspire students to be exceptional, not average. We go beyond recipes, focusing on a deep understanding of ingredients, global cuisines, and culinary traditions. Students learn from top chefs, attend Master Classes, and gain industry placements. We aim to produce creative, globally minded culinary leaders who are adaptable and sustainability focused. As founder and CEO with industry experience as a restaurateur, I lead the school with real-world insight not from a corporate boardroom.

You have recently received Global recognition, can you tell us about some of your most proud recent achievements, and of your future aspirations for Lé Culinaire?
We’re proud to have been named Oceania’s Best Culinary Institute in 2023. I was honoured with a citation from the Industry Professor Association and inducted into the Society of Eminent Chefs in China. We were recognised as the “Most Emerging Higher Education Institute of the Year” at the World Leaders Summit. In 2024, I received Tourism Training Australia Industry’s award. We were featured in The Business Fame Magazine as a leader in education. My personal accolades include Ambassador of Taste Gold Medal and World Master Chefs Culinary Order of Merit.

What intrinsically motivates Brad Bennett, both personally and professionally?
My passion for hospitality and belief in the power of education drive me. Watching students grow and succeed is deeply fulfilling. I’m motivated by shaping a curriculum that stays ahead of trends and ensures our graduates thrive. Achievements of our alumni and the impact they make in the industry are constant sources of inspiration.

It is a particularly difficult time for the hospitality industry, what gives you hope for the future, and what role can Government play in that?
Despite current challenges, I’m optimistic due to rising global demand, innovation, and the push for sustainability. Government support is key. Partnerships with private and public institutions, backing educational pathways, and fostering collaboration with industry associations to uphold standards and drive growth.

You have incredible staff at Lé Culinaire that support both you as CEO and your students, can you tell us what they mean to you?
Our staff are the heart of Lé Culinaire. Their passion, expertise, and dedication greatly enrich our students’ education being both mentors and role models. Their hard work and commitment underpin the success of both institute and students. I deeply value their contribution and consider them essential to our mission.

Some people are naturally born to teach and mentor others, when did you realise you were given that gift?
Through personal experiences and feedback, I realised that sharing knowledge and mentoring others brought me joy and purpose. Helping others succeed and grow affirmed my ability and passion for teaching, making it a calling I’m proud to pursue.

Your ability to motivate others is legendary, for someone who may need some inspiration in their chosen field of endeavour, what would you say to them?
Stay curious, persevere, and believe in yourself. Celebrate even small wins, as they build momentum. Passion fuels success. Love what you do. Be awesome doing it!

This article is an edited version kindly reproduced from a full-length interview published on Dane’s website https://aussiecuisine.com.au. Dane also writes under the handle ‘LBV - Le Bon Vivant’.

Lé Culinaire Hospitality Institute
424 Harris St
Ultimo, NSW 2007

Web: www.leculinaire.edu.au
Tel: +61 2 9211 3945