Chef Gerard Mendis

Chairman of the Sri Lanka’ Chef’s Guild

Chef Gerard Mendis is a pioneering figure in the global culinary world, with a career approaching five decades of remarkable achievements. He swiftly rose through the ranks to work with some of the world’s most prestigious luxury hotel brands, including Ritz Carlton, Intercontinental, Hyatt Regency, and Hilton International, serving as Executive Chef Patissier.

Renowned internationally, Chef Mendis has been instrumental in the successful opening of 27 five-star properties across Europe, the Middle East, the Far East, Asia Pacific, and the United States. In a landmark achievement, he became the first Sri Lankan to win a Gold Medal at the World Culinary Olympics in Germany. He has since earned numerous awards while leading Sri Lankan culinary teams to global recognition, securing multiple gold medal victories.

As a founding member and current Chairman of the Chef’s Guild of Lanka, Chef Mendis has played a pivotal role in elevating Sri Lanka’s culinary standards. Under his leadership, the Guild has grown into a platform for mentorship, professional growth, and international exposure.

Chef Mendis is also an Honorary Life Member of WorldChefs. As Sri Lanka’s first officially appointed judge at the World Culinary Olympics in Germany and the Culinary World Cup in Luxembourg, he has further cemented his role as an international authority in gastronomy.

Widely celebrated as Sri Lanka’s most recognized pastry chef, Chef Gerard Mendis is not only a master of his craft but also a visionary leader and mentor.

Meet the Culinary Jury Members of the ECA Live Cooking Competitions at HACE 2025