Paul Smith
Partner / Owner

Paul, a successful businessman in a wide variety of fields has been involved with Thackeray’s since he and Richard began the company back in 2001.

The perfect foil for Richard their partnership has withstood the test of time and the pair continue to forge new and exciting ventures in the catering field. A Kent resident Paul is passionate about delivering the complete customer experience, ensuring all elements are perfectly packaged.

Watch out for future initiatives from the Perfect Group stable as the team strive to deliver ever more opportunities to consume the finest quality products available.

Kevin James
Partner / Owner

Keir Devine
Restaurant Manager

As the new Restaurant Manager of Hengist, Keir brings with him a wealth of experience in hospitality management gained throughout both the UK and U.S.A.

After graduating with a BSc. in Hotel & Catering Management which included a year in the states, Keir began his career in earnest at the prestigious Gleneagles Hotel in Scotland where he worked as a Management Trainee.

After working his way through 25 departments, Keir moved south to Oxfordshire where he worked with Raymond Blanc at Le Manoir Aux Quat Saisons. The following years have taken him all over the U.K, working predominantly in fine dining restaurants, although he also worked with North Yorkshire Police for a time.

More recently he was involved in re launching the 3 AA rosette Chapters All Day Dining in Blackheath and had a brief spell at Thackerays before coming across to the Hengist.

Keir’s passion for delivering excellent customer service combined with his knowledge of food and wine is second to none and he genuinely looks forward to welcoming you to the Hengist soon.

Daniel Hatton
Head Chef

After a spell as Sous Chef at Hengist a couple of years ago Daniel has come back to take up the mantle of developing Hengist into one of Kent's leading dining establishments. In recent years Dan has spent his time honing his skills under great chefs such as Marco Pierre White, Gordon Ramsay and our very own Richard Phillips.

With an address book of great suppliers he has developed locally, he translates his passion directly onto the plate, with great seasonal food presented with an inspirational twist. Dan is relishing the opportunity to showcase what he and the local area have to offer.