Former Todd English Chef Joins Emily's Catering

Emily's Catering Group is pleased to announce the appointment of Zachary Shuman as Executive Chef, bringing more than 20 years of culinary and hospitality experience to the Connecticut-based catering company.

In his new role, Shuman will lead the kitchen and culinary team overseeing menu development and execution while bringing a fresh perspective to the company's culinary program. He joins Emily's Catering Group with extensive experience spanning fine dining, restaurant operations and culinary leadership throughout Connecticut and New England.

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Shuman's passion for the culinary world started early, working alongside his father before going on to build his experience with notable chefs and restaurants throughout Connecticut. His career experience includes Avon Old Farms Inn, Simsbury Inn and Cavey's, along with the opportunity to work alongside celebrated chef Todd English at Olives and in kitchens in Las Vegas and New York City.

He later brought his culinary perspective to Bean Restaurant Group, where he helped elevate The Student Prince and open Union Kitchen, followed by Butchers & Bakers in Farmington and collaborations with 4th Street Famous in Pennsylvania.

Each experience has helped shape Chef Zach's approach to food, blending a deep respect for the craft with creativity, collaboration and a passion for creating memorable dining experiences.

"Zach brings an incredible depth of experience, but what excites me most is the creativity he brings to Emily's Catering Group," said Rick Kerzner, Owner. "We've spent more than 20 years building this company around great food, personal service and doing things the right way. Zach understands and respects that foundation while also bringing new ideas and a different culinary point of view. I'm excited about what we can create together."

Shuman's arrival marks an evolution of the Emily's Catering Group culinary program, bringing together two distinct but complementary perspectives in the kitchen. Kerzner brings the experience and traditions that have shaped Emily's Catering Group since its founding, while Shuman brings a fresh approach informed by more than two decades working in restaurants and hospitality.

Together, they will focus on continuing to evolve their menus, presentation and overall culinary experience while maintaining the personalized approach that has long defined the company.

"Emily's Catering Group has built a reputation around making each event feel personal, and that really stood out to me," said Shuman. "There's an incredible foundation here and an opportunity to build on it creatively. I'm looking forward to working alongside Rick and the entire Emily's Catering Group team to continue pushing the food forward while staying true to what clients have come to expect from us."

Emily's Catering Group provides full-service catering for weddings, corporate gatherings, social celebrations and special events throughout Connecticut and the surrounding region. Known for thoughtfully crafted menus, exceptional food and highly personalized service, they work closely with clients to create events tailored to their individual vision.

Emily's Catering Group is a Connecticut-based full-service catering company specializing in weddings, corporate events, social gatherings and celebrations of all sizes. For more than two decades, they've built their reputation on exceptional food, thoughtful hospitality and highly personalized events. From custom menus and culinary execution to attentive service, their team approaches each event with the goal of creating an experience that feels distinctly personal to every client.