Name: Sarah Madigan
Position: Executive Chef
Hotel: The Westin Yokohama
Dream destination: I love adventurous holidays, seeking out hidden gems—following where the locals go, and exploring off the beaten path.
Drink or treat of choice: I enjoy a glass of Champagne and have a love for chocolate.

Born and raised in a village in the west of Ireland, Executive Chef Sarah brings over 25 years of experience from some of the world’s most prestigious kitchens across continents. With unwavering tenacity and a passion for her craft, she has built a remarkable culinary career defined by bold creativity, strong leadership, and a steadfast commitment to excellence.

Since joining Marriott in 2012, Sarah has become renowned for her innovative approach to menu development and her celebration of seasonal ingredients. A dedicated leader, her devotion to both culinary excellence and team development earned her the esteemed title of the APEC Rising Star and Award of Culinary Excellence (ACE)—a true testament to her talent and drive.

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Beyond the kitchen, Sarah is known for her generosity of spirit and is deeply committed to giving back, championing charitable causes and leading impactful fundraising initiatives.

Today, she brings her signature blend of heart, heritage, and high standards to The Westin Yokohama, proving that with courage, curiosity, and a love for food, dreams truly can be plated—one dish at a time.

Tell us more about your Marriott career journey.

My connection with Marriott began in 2012 as Executive Sous Chef at JW Marriott Tomorrow Square in Shanghai. Within my first week, I had the incredible privilege of meeting Mr. Bill Marriott and Debbie Harrison in person. Their warmth and genuine engagement left a lasting impression and made me a “Marriott Person” for life.

In 2017, I went on to spend seven years as Executive Chef at the Shanghai Marriott Hotel Parkview. Most recently, I joined The Westin Yokohama, where I now oversee the entire culinary operation and work closely with our chefs to craft memorable dining experiences for our guests. As I settle into this new chapter, I am taking time to immerse myself in the rich Japanese culture and way of life. Throughout my Marriott journey, I have been fortunate to contribute to meaningful initiatives, including charity events such as Roots and Shoots and Operation Smile. The diversity, opportunities, and enduring corporate culture have made my career incredibly fulfilling.

What does a typical day of work look like for you?

No two days are ever the same in the kitchen—and that’s exactly what makes working in a hotel’s culinary department both exciting and rewarding. As an Executive Chef, my role now leans more toward the managerial side: planning events and culinary projects, guiding the team for peak performance, and collaborating across departments to ensure seamless operations.

The days are long and demanding, but what keeps them exhilarating is the opportunity to shape our guest experience through food. That creative freedom and the impact it creates is something I truly cherish.

What are some challenges you faced in your career, and how did you overcome them?

I have worked hard to get to where I am today, like so many others. The journey has not always been smooth. When I started my career at 16, I faced several challenges and was often perceived and treated differently. I believe much of that stemmed from my young age and limited experience at the time. Over the years, as I built my knowledge and confidence, those perceptions evolved, and I earned the trust and respect of my colleagues.

I am grateful to have had overwhelmingly positive experiences throughout my career across Ireland, The United Arab Emirates, China, and now Japan. Each chapter brought its own set of challenges, but also incredible opportunities for growth and learning.

How has Marriott and your hotel supported you in your development?

From the moment I joined Marriott, I felt an immediate sense of belonging. Colleagues quickly became like family, and the bonds we have built are ones I know will last a lifetime. The support I have received from leaders and peers across continents has been nothing short of extraordinary, and their professionalism continues to inspire me. Marriott offers endless opportunities, and for someone who values international exposure and diverse experiences, it has been the perfect place for me to grow. This journey has been very exciting, and I am confident it will continue to shape me in ways I never imagined.

Describe a moment you felt like a part of a community at Marriott.

While serving on the business council in Shanghai, I had the opportunity to support and partner with several charities and organizations. This included organizing golf events and black-tie galas aimed at building schools in underserved regions.

One of the most meaningful experiences was working with Operation Smile, knowing that our efforts could help children overcome life-threatening challenges or social stigma was deeply fulfilling. To me, community means being part of a team that takes concerted action to create real, lasting impact.

What keeps you going in your role every day?

I love what I do—always have and always will. It’s creative, fun, and it brings people together. Through food, I have had the chance to connect with like-minded, passionate chefs from around the world—sharing flavors, traditions, and common goals.

Many of us began our journey in our kitchens at home at a young age, inspired or influenced by our loved ones. What started as something small has grown into so much more—a global journey of learning, teaching, and inspiring.

The opportunity to travel, explore cuisines from every corner of the globe, and deepen my understanding of people from diverse backgrounds is what fuels me every single day.

Describe your cooking style. What are some of your signature dishes?

I love creating fusion-style dishes that blend popular local ingredients with European classics. One of my standout creations was a foie gras terrine infused with Shaoxing wine, served alongside drunken scallops and a balsamic reduction—a bold combination that was striking yet delicately balanced.

Another signature dish of mine was a bacon cabbage wonton in a light Guiness broth. Bacon and cabbage are both very traditional Irish staple, and I wanted to incorporate the flavors of home into a Chinese classic—its uniqueness made it a crowd favorite.

Proudest moment of your career so far?

I’m from a small village called Kilcornan in Limerick, Ireland. Growing up, I never imagined I would one day work in some of the world’s most esteemed establishments across vibrant cities like Dublin, Dubai, Shanghai, Yokohama, and of course, my hometown of Limerick.

One of the most meaningful moments for me is when my parents visit. It’s a chance to show them not just where I work, but the life I have built, the connections I have made along the way, the experiences I have had, and the milestones I have achieved. While they may still wish I lived closer to home, I know they are incredibly proud of how far I have come—and that means the world to me.

What advice would you offer to women looking to accelerate in their career?

Believe in yourself and work hard—you never know what the future holds. If there is something you truly want, take the leap and go for it. Opportunities will come and go, so don’t wait until you feel 100% ready, and never let self-doubt hold you back. Travel, have different experiences, push yourself out of your comfort zone, understand your worth — and keep moving towards your goals!

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