Circle Of Excellence

Circle of Excellence members

A Global Alliance of Culinary Visionaries

Circle Of Excellence

THE CIRCLE AT A GLANCE

Setting the Course for the Future of Gastronomy

Launched to mark the 20th anniversary of Culinary Arts Academy Switzerland, the Circle of Excellence unites influential chefs, educators, restaurateurs, and business leaders whose leadership, generosity and influence advance the future of culinary culture..

Inspired by Honorary Dean and Founding Member Chef Anton Mosimann OBE DL, its members help shape future culinary professionals through mentorship, masterclasses, internships, and other opportunities for students.

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THE PURPOSE OF THE CIRCLE

A continuous exchange

The Circle takes its symbol from the Möbius strip—an unbroken form with no beginning and no end. It represents the continuous exchange between teacher and student, tradition and innovation, achievement and service. Like the Circle itself, it expresses a lifelong commitment to learning, leadership and the shared future of culinary culture.

"Excellence is most fully expressed when it is also given."

THE PHILOSOPHY AT THE HEART OF THE CIRCLE

Anton Mosimann & students
Anton Mosimann, OBE DL showing his collection to the Circle of Excellence members

Anton Mosimann OBE DL, the Founder

Culinary heritage: the inspiration

The philosophy of the Circle is given a physical home through the Mosimann Collection at Culinary Arts Academy Switzerland in Le Bouveret.

Historic cookbooks, menus, recipes, photographs, medals and personal artifacts connect culinary history with the students and professionals, as well as serve as an inspiration to serve its future.

MEET THE CIRCLE

The inaugural members

6 professionals carefully selected bringing together a distinct form of leadership - from gastronomy and education to sustainability, cultural preservation, philanthropy and industry innovation.

Anton Mosimann, OBE DL

Anton Mosimann, OBE DL

Honorary Dean Culinary Arts Academy

Mr. Anton Mosimann OBE is a world-renowned, Michelin-starred Swiss chef, lauded for his revolutionary cuisine naturelle and beloved by royalty, dignitaries and celebrities. At 28, he became the youngest person ever to hold the position of maître chef des cuisines at London's Dorchester Hotel and has since continued to defy expectations and forge his own path, establishing a private dining club and his own catering company. In 2004, he was awarded Most Excellent Order of the British Empire for his services in the tourism and food industries, and in 2021, he was named honorary dean of Culinary Arts Academy. 

 

Alain Müller

Alain Müller

Dean

Chef Alain Müller joined César Ritz Colleges in 1994, following a culinary career in Canada and Switzerland. As one of the founding figures behind the creation of Culinary Arts Academy Switzerland, he has played a defining role in its development and success. Today, as Dean of the Academy, he continues to champion an education that combines culinary excellence with business acumen, preparing students to become the culinary entrepreneurs and industry leaders of tomorrow.

Deepanker Khosla

Deepanker Khosla

Honorary Member

As a Michelin- and Green Star-awarded chef, and through his visionary work at Haoma Bangkok (Thailand), his contribution to the world of gastronomy has established an inspiring benchmark of culinary craft, innovation, and sustainability — one against which the profession continues to measure itself. Equally, his personal philosophy and leadership, both within the kitchen and beyond it, embody the values of creativity, responsibility, and excellence.

Rania Moualla

Rania Moualla

Honorary Member

As Founder and Chairwoman of ZADK — Saudi Arabia’s first nonprofit culinary arts institution — her visionary leadership and philanthropic dedication have created a remarkable platform for youth empowerment, culinary education, and cultural preservation. Through her  commitment to sustainability, zero-waste cooking, and the celebration of the Kingdom’s rich culinary heritage, she has established an inspiring model of purpose-driven gastronomy that resonates far beyond the culinary world.

Equally, her personal values and leadership embody the ideals of innovation, responsibility, and social impact to which Culinary Arts Academy is deeply dedicated

Gilles Varone

Gilles Varone

Honorary Member

As a two Michelin Star and Green Star-awarded chef (restaurant Gilles Varone, Saviese, Switzerland), his contribution to the world of gastronomy has established an inspiring benchmark of culinary artistry, innovation, and sustainability — one against which the profession continues to measure itself. His recognitions as Best Young Chef by the Craft Guild of Chefs at London’s Royal Garden, as well as recipient of the Michelin Guide Young Chef Award 2024, further reflect the exceptional talent, dedication, and vision that distinguishes his career.

Poul Gorell

Poul Gorell

Honorary Member

As an accomplished Danish chef and corporate food professional, Poul Gorell currently serves as Regional Culinary Manager for Europe at Nestlé Professional, where he specializes in business development, product innovation, and culinary food technology across European markets. Dedicated to elevating the culinary arts, Gorell is a board member for Akademiet Bocuse d'Or Danmark, managing strategic sponsor relations. His diverse career spans roles at foodtech firm OSCAR A/S, Novo Nordisk Hvidøre, and top Danish restaurants like Le Sommelier. He is also a passionate advocate for community initiatives, inspiring healthy eating habits in children through International Chefs Day.

WHAT UNITES US

The values of the Circle

Four principles shape the way Members contribute to the profession, the Academy and the next generation.

Culture

Culture

Recognising cuisine as an expression of identity, memory, place and human connection.

Generosity

Generosity

Sharing knowledge, experience and opportunity so others continue beyond the individual.

Excellence

Excellence

Pursuing the highest standards while helping others develop their own potential.

Elegance

Elegance

Expressing excellence with care, restraint, integrity and respect for craft and table.

At CAAS, you don't just study culinary arts. You enter a global community of culinary excellence — and the Circle of Excellence elevates this connection.

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