020 8914 8966
020 8914 8966
José Andrés – Founder of World Central Kitchen & Twice-Named as One The Time Magazine’s “100 Most Influential People”
José Andrés is a globally recognised culinary innovator, humanitarian leader and entrepreneur who has transformed how food intersects with culture, crisis response and social impact. As the founder of World Central Kitchen, he has mobilised chefs and local communities to deliver food at scale in the aftermath of natural disasters and humanitarian emergencies worldwide. Alongside his humanitarian leadership, José has built an influential international restaurant group and media platform, using food as a unifying force for positive change across borders, communities and industries.
Speaking Topics:
- Changing The World Through The Power of Food
- Creativity and Innovation for a Better Tomorrow
- Building an Innovative Global Brand
Credentials and Impact
José Andrés has built a multifaceted career spanning hospitality, humanitarian action, education and public service. He is the Founder and Executive Chairman of José Andrés Group, which operates nearly 40 restaurants and has played a significant role in shaping modern dining in the United States, particularly through elevating Spanish cuisine and collaborative kitchen cultures. In 2010, he established World Central Kitchen, a non-profit organisation that redefined disaster response by partnering with local chefs and suppliers to deliver fresh meals quickly and efficiently during crises, from hurricanes and earthquakes to conflict zones.
Beyond hospitality and humanitarian work, José has expanded his influence through education and policy. In 2023, he founded the Global Food Institute at George Washington University, advancing research and dialogue on food systems, sustainability and access. He currently serves as Co-Chair of the US President’s Council on Sports, Fitness and Nutrition and has been a long-standing advocate for immigration reform. His work reflects a rare blend of operational leadership, civic engagement and global systems thinking grounded in food as a catalyst for resilience and dignity.
Publications and Media
José has authored a range of influential books spanning food, leadership and humanitarian work, including “Change the Recipe”, “We Fed an Island”, “The World Central Kitchen Cookbook”, “Zaytinya” and “Vegetables Unleashed”. He has also presented television series such as José Andrés Made in Spain and Spain On the Road Again, and has appeared on programmes including Top Chef, 60 Minutes and PBS specials. His insights are regularly featured on NPR and other international radio platforms. Collectively, his publications and media work amplify his belief that food is a powerful tool for cultural connection, social change and humanitarian impact.
Why Book José?
José is booked as a food, leadership and humanitarian speaker for his ability to connect global challenges with practical action and moral clarity. Drawing on frontline experience responding to disasters and building large-scale organisations under pressure, he delivers powerful insights on leadership, teamwork, resilience and purpose. His speaking engagements are informed by appearances across international media and advisory roles within government and global institutions. Audiences value his compelling storytelling, real-world lessons and belief that food can be a tool for unity, recovery and hope in times of uncertainty.
To book José to speak at your event, call SpeakOut on +44 (0) 20 8914 8966. Alternatively, complete our contact form to begin your enquiry.
