Duncan Fraser-Smith

Co-Founder, CRAFT Hospitality Group

The author of CREATE TO PLATE and a recognised innovator in the global hospitality industry, with over three decades of experience across the Middle East, Africa, Asia, Europe and Australia, Duncan has held senior roles with leading brands such as Hyatt, IHG and Accor, as well as independent operators.

In 2008, Duncan took on the role of General Manager of Hospitality Operations at Qatar Sports City. Since 2010, he has been based in Dubai, where he was named the No 1 Influencer on the Caterer Middle East Power 50 and voted a leading F&B Director in Hotel & Catering News. His journey includes serving as Group Director of Design, Food and Beverage for IHG.

In 2013, Duncan founded The Cutting-Edge Hospitality Agency, launching venues, including Marina Social with Michelin-starred chef Jason Atherton, CLE Dubai with Greg Malouf and Intersect by Lexus. He partnered with Endemol Shine Group to bring MasterChef, the TV Experience to life - a unique ‘screen-to-plate’ concept.

Duncan’s career highlights include over 30 years creating restaurants, cafes, bars and clubs, with over 250 hospitality concepts worldwide including the world’s first ‘MasterChef, the TV Experience’ restaurant.

Duncan is a founding member of Global Restaurant Investment Forum (GRIF) and a regular moderator and panellist for international trade associations including Future Hospitality Summit and TO THE TABLE.