As well as supporting BM’s growth in this space, Steenkamp will help drive standards through a new approach to barista training. He replaces Miguel Camara, who has returned to Madeira, and will assume responsibility for BM’s entire beverage offering, including tea.
Steenkamp said: "My mission is to both maintain our esteemed vision and introduce my own pragmatic approach to the role. I am deeply committed to the professional growth of our baristas, ensuring they have a clear pathway for development within BM. My immediate plans include a hands-on collaboration with our coffee partners, which started with a visit to the Perkee Soppexcca cooperative in Nicaragua.
“My passion is matched by my dedication to creating a supportive and dynamic barista community within the #BMfamily. It’s about cultivating a culture where our commitment to coffee translates into exceptional experiences for our customers, ensuring that every cup we serve is a reflection of our love for coffee."
Steenkamp’s experience in hospitality has included two years as coffee sales manager for independent coffee roaster Matthew Algie, where he oversaw most of the brand’s London business, servicing around 400 independent cafés, larger hotel and pub chains.
Antony Prentice, BM joint managing director, added: “Adrian stood out with his solid grasp of our aim to continually make our coffee more ethical and sustainable, and his understanding of how to meet clients’ coffee requirements in the workplace. He is energetic, and a great communicator, and really understands the importance and value of relationships in coffee.”