Harriet Mansell is a Sidmouth chef, restaurateur, and wild food enthusiast. She began her culinary journey at a young age, working in a local greengrocer's, which sparked her passion for food. Harriet's early career took her to London, where she worked at Mark Hix’s Oyster and Champagne Bar in Selfridges, followed by a stage at Noma in Copenhagen and roles in Michelin-starred restaurants.
Her career then expanded internationally, leading her to the superyacht industry. There, she served as head chef for the Qatari royal family in Seychelles and the Murdoch family in the Caribbean and Mediterranean. She won her category at the Annual Antigua International Yacht Chef Competition while working for the Murdochs.
Upon returning to the UK, Harriet launched her first restaurant as a pop-up in Lyme Regis, which became permanent. Around the same time, she appeared on the Great British Menu, reaching the semi-finals. She opened Lilac Restaurant and Wine Bar, establishing her reputation as a chef focused on wild foods. She also hosts the podcast If a Tree Falls, interviewing individuals connected to nature.
Harriet has received numerous accolades, including Chef of the Year at the Food Magazine Awards and the Creativity and Innovation Award for Lilac at the Trencherman’s Awards. Both Robin Wylde and Lilac have been listed in the Michelin Guide. She has been nominated for Best Restaurant Outside London, Best Chef by Food and Travel magazine, and Best Female Chef by Square Meal. Harriet’s work highlights creativity, sustainability, and a strong connection to nature. Contact the PepTalk team today for fee information and a speaker availability check.
Harriet Mansell's journey as a female chef in a male-dominated industry highlights the unique challenges and opportunities she faced. From navigating discrimination and cultural biases to building an inclusive environment at her restaurant, Robin Wylde, Harriet's experiences reflect resilience and transformation. Attendees will learn about the importance of compassion in leadership, the significance of creating supportive spaces, and how personal growth practices can enhance professional success in challenging environments.
