Meet the Team
The People Behind Your Team
Global Recruitment Agent
Melchor Pensotes
Melchor brings more than 30 years of food and beverage leadership within world-renowned groups, from The Shangri-La in Manila and New World Renaissance in Kuala Lumpur to the Balmoral Hotel in Edinburgh.
His experience also spans globally recognised cruise operations, including Cunard and P&O Princess, operating in Australia, Singapore and the U.S.
With a background in quality operations, training and development, Melchor has the insight to identify exactly the right staff member to fit each of our clients' needs.
His global experience gives Blairdouganecosse access to a network of highly skilled individuals.
Enquire About Relief CoverChef / Director
Christopher Dougan
With over 30 years of industry experience across the globe, Chris has developed a true understanding of what it takes to operate amongst the best in the hospitality industry.
From humble beginnings, Chris worked his way through some of the toughest kitchens in the industry. He trained under Nigel Haworth at Northcote Manor and The Clog and Billycock, and under Paul Heathcote at Simple Heathcotes in Winckley Square, Preston, before joining Marcus Wareing at the two-Michelin-star Pétrus in London, with further time in Michelin-starred restaurants in Soho, Manchester and Edinburgh.
His career also took him to the Highlands, to Guernsey for two stints at La Grande Mare in 2004 and 2009, covering the island's renowned Tennerfest and the festive season, and to Paris as breakfast chef at Hotel de Champerret. It then led to Singapore, where he headed The Jackson Plan, a British gastrobar on Duxton Hill. He then returned home to launch the award-winning Kenmuir Arms, which earned Scotland's Dining Discovery of the Year, 5 AA Gold Stars and 2 AA Rosettes in its first year.
This lived experience gives Blairdouganecosse the insight into what is required of candidates to operate amongst the highest performers in the industry. With a clear understanding of business P&L factors, we ensure only positivity and results from our recruits, who will directly benefit your business over any relief period, no matter how brief.
30+ years
Food and beverage leadership
Hotels
The Shangri-La Manila, New World Renaissance Kuala Lumpur, The Balmoral Edinburgh
Cruise
Cunard and P&O Princess across Australia, Singapore and the U.S.