Badminton Place

With an exceptional culinary career spanning some of the world’s most prestigious kitchens, Mark Stuart brings both expertise and heartfelt passion to his role as Head Chef at Badminton Place.

Mark began his journey at the renowned Garrick Club in Covent Garden, training at Westminster College before progressing to celebrated establishments including The Goring Hotel, the House of Commons, and Voyager Wine Estate in Australia.

One of the most distinguished chapters of his career saw him working as Sous Chef at Buckingham Palace, where he contributed to a number of historic occasions, including the Royal Wedding of Prince William and Catherine Middleton, the American Presidential State Visit, the Olympic Games celebrations, and the Diamond Jubilee. During this time, he prepared meals for Her Majesty The Queen, the Duke of Edinburgh, and international guests, including President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama.

Today, Mark brings that same level of care, precision and creativity to Badminton Place. While he once thrived in the fast-paced world of fine dining, he now finds true fulfilment in creating enjoyable and meaningful dining experiences for residents.

Initially uncertain about working in the care sector, Mark’s perspective changed after working as a private chef, where he saw first-hand the powerful impact that nutritious, well-prepared food can have on wellbeing. He is passionate about using seasonal ingredients, creating comforting yet refined dishes, and ensuring every meal supports both enjoyment and health.

Mark takes particular pride in working closely with his kitchen team to create special dining experiences and events, as well as the everyday moments that matter most, such as helping residents rediscover their appetite and enjoyment of food. With additional insight from his wife, an NHS dietitian, he continues to develop menus that are both nourishing and delicious.

For Mark, the greatest reward is simple: seeing smiles in the dining room and knowing his food brings comfort, joy and a sense of home to every resident.

Kieran is a highly valued member of the team at Badminton Place and a recent recipient of the Star of the Year award—recognition that reflects both his dedication and the positive impact he has on those around him.

Before joining Berkley Care, Kieran built an impressive career in the hospitality industry, working in high-end kitchens across the UK and Europe. Beginning as an apprentice chef, he progressed to Head Chef roles, leading teams in fast-paced, high-pressure environments. Along the way, he gained experience in Michelin-recognised establishments and contributed to restaurants receiving accolades such as a Michelin Plate and inclusion in Harden’s Top 100 restaurants.

Kieran’s career has been defined by his commitment to quality, creativity and strong leadership. From developing menus and mentoring team members to delivering consistently high culinary standards, his attention to detail and passion for excellence have always stood out. His experience also includes catering for prestigious events, including a garden party for the Australian tennis team during Wimbledon.

Since joining Badminton Place, Kieran has brought that same energy and professionalism into his role. He is known for his positive attitude, reliability and willingness to go the extra mile for both residents and colleagues. He values being part of a supportive team and takes great pride in making a meaningful difference to residents’ daily lives.

Outside of work, Kieran enjoys staying active and has a passion for sport, including skiing, cricket, golf and tennis. He also regularly takes part in long-distance running events, particularly half marathons, demonstrating the same determination and drive he brings to his work.

Kieran’s Star of the Year award is a reflection of his hard work, team spirit and commitment to delivering the very best for residents, making him a truly valued member of the Badminton Place community.

Louise Smart, Events Manager at Badminton Place, brings creativity, compassion and genuine dedication to everything she does. With nearly five years’ experience in the care sector, alongside over 20 years as a qualified early years practitioner, Louise is passionate about enriching the lives of residents through meaningful and engaging experiences.

Her care journey began during the COVID-19 pandemic, when, after being furloughed, Louise felt a strong pull to support those most in need. She joined a care home as a care assistant, where her natural empathy and desire to make a difference quickly became clear. It wasn’t long before she transitioned into activities and events coordination, where she discovered her true calling.

Louise takes great pride in creating personalised experiences for each resident. By taking the time to understand their interests, hobbies and life stories, she is able to design activities that feel familiar, enjoyable and truly meaningful. From rekindling much-loved pastimes to introducing new and exciting opportunities, Louise ensures every day offers moments of connection, purpose and joy.

Whether leading group activities, organising special events or spending one-to-one time with residents, Louise is dedicated to helping each individual live a fulfilling and enriched life. She believes that every moment matters and works tirelessly to create experiences that promote happiness, confidence and wellbeing.

Louise’s warmth, creativity and compassionate nature make her an invaluable part of the Badminton Place team, and her commitment to building a vibrant and supportive community is felt by residents, families and colleagues alike.

With over 26 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Ana Freitas brings a wealth of knowledge, warmth and genuine passion to her role as Hospitality Manager at Badminton Place.

Ana’s impressive career has taken her across a wide range of environments, including bars, restaurants, pubs, clubs, cruise ships and airport lounges. However, it is within the care sector that she has truly found her calling. As Ana shares, her inspiration comes from a simple but powerful belief: to provide the very best hospitality for residents and to make them feel part of a family.

At Badminton Place, Ana is dedicated to creating a welcoming, comfortable and uplifting environment for everyone who walks through the doors. She takes great pride in the finer details—whether it’s preparing a resident’s favourite drink just the way they like it, offering a freshly baked treat, or simply taking the time to sit and share a conversation. For Ana, these small moments are what truly make a difference.

She is passionate about ensuring consistently high standards, always listening carefully, noticing individual preferences and being present for residents and their families. Her thoughtful and attentive approach helps create an atmosphere where people feel valued, understood and at home.

One of Ana’s favourite memories at Badminton Place was celebrating Easter alongside the team, dressing up and sharing chocolate eggs with residents—an occasion filled with laughter and smiles that perfectly reflects her approach to care.

For Ana, the most rewarding part of her role is seeing residents happy and knowing that both they and their families feel reassured and supported. She treasures the opportunity to build meaningful relationships and takes great joy in getting to know each resident more every day.

Ana’s kindness, experience and heartfelt approach make her an integral part of life at Badminton Place, helping to create not just a place to live, but a true home filled with care and connection.