Sarah Hayward, AYALA Squaremeal Female Chef Series 2025

Sarah Hayward

Ten years ago, Sarah Hayward timidly stepped through the doors of the two-Michelin-starred Hand and Flowers as a young demi chef de partie. Today, she stands as its Head Chef — a remarkable journey within Tom Kerridge’s group, built on hard work, determination, and passion.

Originally from the Isle of Wight, Sarah grew up in a home where cooking was at the heart of family life. Her father, a professional chef, played a central role in her calling. From a young age, she experienced the energy and demands of a professional kitchen while working at the family restaurant. After local training, she quickly joined Lucknam Park Hotel, gaining invaluable experience — especially in the Michelin-starred kitchen of Hywel Jones.

In 2015, Sarah joined the Hand and Flowers. Struck by the size of the brigade and the precision of service, she was determined to rise through the ranks. Within months, she became a chef de partie, and gradually climbed higher thanks to her endurance and adaptability. However, a solid, long-standing team left little room for further growth. One conversation with Tom Kerridge changed everything: a position was opening at The Coach — the group’s one-star pub just down the road. She quickly rose to Head Chef there.

Her path took a new turn with the launch of the Bull & Bear in Manchester. It was her first opening as head of a kitchen — a huge challenge that she rose to brilliantly, even amid the pressures of lockdown. The experience taught her how to lead: managing a team, schedules, and tough decisions. Backed by Tom Kerridge and his team, Sarah gained confidence and solidified her leadership.

It was at The Coach that her career reached national recognition. In this open kitchen, where the connection with guests is immediate, she honed a leadership style that is both human and inspiring. In 2022, she was named Michelin’s Young Chef of the Year — a major recognition that marked a turning point in her career.

Today, Sarah takes the reins of the legendary Hand and Flowers, becoming the first woman to lead the restaurant since its founding. She represents a new era — including an unprecedented all-female leadership team across key roles. With humility, she acknowledges the legacy of Tom Kerridge, while embracing the opportunity to leave her own mark.

“You have to step out of your comfort zone to grow,” she says — a philosophy she has followed since day one, and one that has carried her to the summit of the UK’s gastronomic scene. Her appointment comes as the pub celebrates its 20th anniversary: a pivotal moment for the restaurant, and the start of an exciting new chapter for Sarah Hayward.