Internationally recognised Australian pastry chef and chocolatier Ryan Stevenson has been announced as the official Callebaut Ambassador in South Pacific, Australia.

For Ryan, the appointment also serves as a return to Callebaut after previously serving as Head Chef of the company’s flagship Chocolate Academy in Belgium.

“I’m incredibly excited to return to Callebaut and begin this new chapter in Australia. Callebaut has played an important role throughout my career, and this opportunity allows me to combine the international experience I have gained with my understanding of the Australian pastry and foodservice community,” he said.

“I want to be a genuine resource for the industry and someone chefs, chocolatiers, and businesses can turn to for practical guidance, technical support and inspiration.

“Australia has an enormously talented and creative foodservice sector, and I’m looking forward to helping more people explore what is possible with chocolate.”

Callebaut Australia managing director Ken Basha said Ryan brought with him a rare combination of world-class technical ability. international experience and a deep connection with the Australian chocolate and pastry communities.

“His appointment demonstrates our commitment to being closer to customers, the local industry, and providing Australian chefs and foodservice businesses with meaningful, practical support,” he said.

“Ryan will be an important ambassador for Callebaut and a strong voice for chefs, artisans and businesses we serve.”

A two-time Belgian Chocolate Master, Ryan won Best Praline in the World at the 2009 World Chocolate Masters Final in Paris and represented Belgium at the competition in both 2009 and 2011. Ryan also won the Prosper Montagne Trophy in 2009 and served as team captain for the Australian team for the 2026 Asian Cup Selection of the Gelato World Cup.

“Knowledge sharing has remained central throughout my career, spanning technical development, workshops, masterclasses, commercial chocolate applications and competition mentoring,” Ryan said.

“My focus with Callebaut Australia will be on listening to the local foodservice community and sharing knowledge in way that are practical and valuable.