Kenneth Williams is the executive chef at The Westin Anaheim Resort, a new AAA Four-Diamond Resort. Chef Williams recently joined the hotel’s team, bringing with him more than 27 years of hospitality experience. Learn about Kenneth Williams…
Hometown: Born in Newark, NJ
First job: First professional job out of The Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, NY, was with the Four Seasons Newport Beach.
Favorite ways to spend your free time in CA: Traveling throughout the state, going to beaches in Southern California, as well as visiting Santa Barbara and wine country.
Your biggest accomplishment and why: My biggest accomplishment was becoming a Certified Executive Chef through the American Culinary Federation.
The biggest obstacle you overcame: Being a successful parent and an efficient leader.
Someone who inspires you and why: The late General Colin Powell. He fought through so many adversarial situations in his life to becoming one of America’s most respected leaders and was considered a great leader of men and women.
Advice to someone pursuing a career path in what you do: Understanding it is not about instant gratification. It’s about hard work and putting in the time. Being a chef is not about the title of chef; it’s about being a leader, teacher and a person of integrity. Careful listening and being coachable goes a long way in this industry.
Favorite quote: If you haven’t failed, you haven’t tried…
Something someone would be surprised to learn about you: I am a die-hard Las Vegas Raiders fan.
What makes someone fabulous: Having an open mind and heart and willing to give to others.