Henry Dimbleby Keynote Speaker

Henry Dimbleby, an influential food systems innovator and co-founder of the acclaimed restaurant chain Leon, has dedicated his career to transforming the way we think about food. As the lead author of the UK’s National Food Strategy, he has significantly impacted public health and nutrition policies. His work focuses on creating sustainable food systems that benefit both people and the planet.

He studied Physics and Philosophy at Oxford University from 1989-92. His diverse educational background laid the groundwork for his multifaceted career in food and business. Before diving into the food industry, he worked as a journalist for the Daily Telegraph and as a management consultant at Bain & Company in 1995, where he gained his analytical and strategic skills.

Dimbleby’s culinary journey began in 1992 when he sharpened his skills as a Commis Chef at the Michelin-starred Four Seasons Inn restaurant, working under renowned head chef Bruno Loubet. In 2004, Henry co-founded Leon, a fast-food restaurant chain with a revolutionary approach. Leon quickly gained popularity for its delicious and healthy offerings. Under his leadership, Leon expanded significantly, promoting a new standard for fast food that prioritized both nutrition and sustainability. This venture showcased his ability to blend entrepreneurial spirit with a commitment to public health. In 2021, Leon was sold to the EG Group, owners of Asda.

Henry’s passion for improving food systems led him to co-author the School Food Plan in 2014, which aimed to transform food education and meals in UK schools. In 2015, he received an MBE award for his work on improving school food. He served as the Lead Non-Executive Director at the Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs in 2018, and building on this success, he was appointed to lead the development of the National Food Strategy, published in two parts in 2020 and 2021. The strategy provides a comprehensive analysis of the UK food system and proposes actionable recommendations to improve health outcomes, support sustainable agriculture, and reduce environmental impact.

In addition to his policy work, Dimbleby co-authored a book “Ravenous: How to get ourselves and our planet into shape,” published in 2023 that explores the mechanisms that act together to shape the modern diet globally. He has also co-authored many Leon cookbooks including “Leon: Naturally Fast Food” published in 2o10, sharing his expertise and love for nutritious food with a broader audience. His writing and public speaking engagements continue to inspire positive change in food systems worldwide