Who is chef Jack Sencherey-Evans on MasterChef: The Professionals 2026?

MasterChef: The Professionals 2026 returns to BBC One on Tuesday, November 3, and head of food Jack Sencherey-Evans is one of the six chefs fighting for a place in the next round in the opening heat.

The 37-year-old, who lives in Portsmouth with his girlfriend, faces Dan Nunn, Ruchi Mehrotra, Kieran Jones, Jemma Harrison and Matty Grove in the first group of this year's MasterChef: The Professionals 2026 series, which features 24 chefs competing in groups of six.

Age at start of filming

37

Job role

Head of food

Chef background

Jack is head of food at Relentless Steak & Lobster House at Port Solent Marina, having been at Natty's Jerk in Portsmouth during filming.

He said: "I studied to be a patisserie chef on a catering course at Highbury College, in Portsmouth."

The most memorable kitchen he has worked in is Noma in Copenhagen.

Who or what inspired you to become a chef?

"My mother was a professional chef. I would watch her cook delicious food on Sundays before church."

How would you describe your style of cooking and influences on it?

"I would describe my style of cooking as modern European meets West African.

"My heritage, as well as the kitchens and chefs I've been lucky enough to work with, are my influences."

Three ingredients you can't live without?

"Scotch bonnets, thyme, and fish."

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What do you eat when you get back from service?

"Jollof rice, sea bream, and puff-puffs."

Why did you want to take part in MasterChef: The Professionals?

"To showcase West African cuisine, challenge myself in a new environment, and experience something that very few chefs have the opportunity to do."

Outside of cooking, what are your passions?

"Photography, playing a handpan, riding motorbikes, and discovering new cuisines and how cultures influenced them."

>>> Read more: MasterChef: The Professionals series 19: start date, judges and the full chef lineup