‘Iconic chef’ Philip Corrick MBE dies aged 71

Philip Corrick MBE, the former executive chef at the Royal Automobile Club and a long-serving fellow of the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts, has died aged 71.

The news was shared by his daughter Olivia, who said Philip passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, March 21, 2026, after what she described as a long and dignified battle with cancer.

In a tribute posted on Instagram, Olivia described her father as “our hero, our guiding light, our protector, and best friend,” adding that to many others he had also been “a mentor, a role model, and a constant source of strength and support”.

A private cremation will take place, with a celebration of Philip’s life to be held at a later date, in line with his wishes.

A respected figure in British hospitality

Philip was widely respected across hospitality for both his longevity in the industry and his commitment to developing young talent.

The Royal Academy of Culinary Arts said he dedicated his life to “the craft of hospitality and culinary excellence”, highlighting his work as executive head chef at the Royal Automobile Club, where he oversaw dining and banqueting across Pall Mall and Epsom.

The Academy also said his career included time with the Savoy Group at Claridge’s and The Berkeley before he joined the RAC Club in 1989, where he remained for more than two decades.

Beyond his work in professional kitchens, Philip played an important role in supporting future talent through the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts. The Academy said he helped launch the Take Three Colleges Dinner at the RAC Club, an initiative that remains a cornerstone of its Adopt a School programme, bringing together colleges from across the country to learn, collaborate and be inspired by leading chefs and hospitality professionals.

Tributes paid to Philip Corrick

Among those paying tribute was John Williams MBE, executive chef at The Ritz London, who described Philip as “a humble man with great intention” whose support for the Royal Academy “was immense”.

John said Philip was “always at the forefront, ready to make things happen for the good of our profession and to the benefit of educating the next generation in cooking and service”, adding that his friendship and commitment would be deeply missed.

Brian Turner CBE also paid tribute, describing Philip as “Mr dependable”.

He said: “Everything he did was with the intention of supporting the RACA, especially through Adopt a School. He played such an important role in inspiring young people to train and consider a future in hospitality.”

Brian added that Philip’s “friendship, generosity, encouragement, and commitment will be greatly missed”.

Daniel Pereira, managing director of the Royal Automobile Club, described Philip as “an inspirational leader, a loyal friend, and a devoted husband and father”.

He said Philip’s “extraordinary leadership at the Club over three decades, his commitment to developing and inspiring future talent, and his passion for supporting charitable causes leaves a lasting legacy that will be deeply missed”.

Michael Coaker, culinary ambassador at The University of West London, said: “Phil Corrick MBE was an iconic chef, a good friend and family man.

“He gave his time generously and with good humour and enthusiasm. He will be sorely missed by all.”