This arrangement will see McLaughlin, head chef of the Restaurant Andrew Fairlie, contribute as a consultant for Compass Scotland. He will play a central role in the apprenticeship and training programme, working alongside the culinary team to drive innovation and develop the next generation of talent.
One of Compass Scotland's apprentices will be working alongside McLaughlin in the kitchen at Restaurant Andrew Fairlie, based at Gleneagles in Perthshire.
David Hay, managing director of Compass Scotland, said: “We’re incredibly proud and excited to welcome Stevie on board as our culinary ambassador. The ethos at Restaurant Andrew Fairlie perfectly complements that at Compass Scotland, with a menu influenced by the very best of seasonal Scottish ingredients. We’re thrilled that Stevie has agreed to work with us on our apprenticeship programme and we know he’ll be an inspiration to all involved.”
McLaughlin has worked with Andrew Fairlie for 26 years, first at One Devonshire Gardens and then he joined Restaurant Andrew Fairlie in 2001 before becoming head chef in 2006. He added: “I was fortunate enough to work alongside my mentor Andrew Fairlie, and progressed through the ranks – so I truly understand how inspirational this kind of opportunity can be.
“There’s something very special about learning and refining your skills in a working kitchen environment, as you learn something new every day. I’m looking forward to working with Compass Scotland and getting to know the apprentices who will become the next generation of Scottish hospitality talent.”
Restaurant Andrew Fairlie was awarded a Michelin star in 2002, within a year of opening and the second star was added in 2006.