Few journeys in the culinary world are as inspiring as that of Jerson Montereyjack Fernandes. Today, as Director of Culinary Operations at Sodexo India and a Guinness World Record holder, Chef Jerson exemplifies how passion and perseverance can turn humble beginnings into extraordinary achievements. His mantra "Never forget your roots", underscores a career built not just on technical mastery, but on heart, purpose, and authenticity.

Chef Jerson holds the unique distinction of being the only Indian chef to cook twice for the White House Delegates, USA. A testament to his international caliber. His accolades speak volumes: India’s Best Chef 2021-22 and 2022-23, Star Chef Award of India 2019, and felicitations from the Chief Minister of Goa and the Mayor of Mumbai. He also became India’s first Executive Hotel Chef to deliver a TEDx talk, sharing culinary wisdom with a broader audience. He was also recognized as the most Creative chef of India in 2016 and 2017.

From corporate boardrooms to Bollywood sets, Chef Jerson’s clientele reads like a roll call of Indian excellence. He has crafted meals for the whose who of the corporate, sporting and glamor industry. To name a few, business titans such as Azeem Premji (Wipro), Rohit Java (Hindustan Unilever), Sindhu G (SAP), Naveen Jindal (Jindal Steel) etc, while delighting Bollywood stars Kareena Kapoor, Abhishek Bachchan, Ajay Devgan, Vicky Kaushal etc, Tollywood heroes Prabhas, Ravi Teja, Sathyaraaj etc and sports legends Steve Waugh, Kapil Dev, Mary Kom, Leander Paes etc.

Beyond the glamour, Chef Jerson has pioneered meaningful initiatives. He became India’s first Executive Chef to train and collaborate with special needs children, a CSR effort close to his heart. He has also imparted culinary training to the armed forces at INS Hamla, earning their special recognition.

With 150,000 plus organic Instagram followers, 4 million average monthly views, and 61,000+ LinkedIn connections making him the second-most-followed Indian chef globally, Jerson has mastered the art of digital storytelling. His appearances on the sets of MasterChef India in 2024 and 2025 further cemented his status as a household name.

Chef Jerson Fernandes proves that with dedication, humility, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, even a dishwasher can cook for the world’s best and inspire millions along the way. His journey shows that humble beginnings are no barrier to extraordinary achievements. From cooking for the celebrities to mentoring future chefs, his story blends talent with heart. Beyond awards and recognition, his work inspires, uplifts, and makes a meaningful impact. He proves that with passion, perseverance, and purpose, even the loftiest dreams are within reach.

Chef Jerson currently heads the culinary operations in the Corporate Food segment for Sodexo India, the French multinational renowned for its global food and facilities services. He reports to Mr. Rakesh Agarwal (COO – Corporate Food, India), whom he fondly regards as his guiding light and mentor in the corporate world.