Jones worked alongside Tom Shepherd from October 2021 to July 2024, where he was junior sous chef when the restaurant was awarded a Michelin star just four months after opening.
His CV also includes being a demi chef de partie at two Michelin-starred Moor Hall, chef de Partie at Michelin-starred The Black Swan at Oldstead, and commis chef at Fairlawns Hotel & Spa.
In his new role, Jones will collaborate with head chef Michael Blades, who was promoted to the role in November last year, and the culinary team to create new dishes and spearhead creative projects from bespoke menus at the kitchen table to private dining for up to 36 guests.
He will also contribute to the restaurant’s growing consultancy division, which includes partnerships with Experiences by Wembley Stadium, Royal Ascot, Wimbledon and Edgbaston Cricket, as well as bespoke dining events and culinary brand collaborations.
“Upstairs is like home from home for me, coming back to work alongside Tom and Michael is an incredible opportunity and I feel very proud to take the consultancy arm of the business forward,” he says.
Speaking about the appointment, Shepherd adds: “Dan has been a cornerstone of our kitchen family since the beginning, he’s gained some exceptional experience across the industry and now he is back to help us continue to push boundaries and embody the standards of excellence we strive for at Upstairs.
“His creativity, work ethic, and commitment to innovation make him an incredible asset, not just to our restaurant but to our consultancy projects as well. We’re excited to see how his vision helps us evolve in 2025 and beyond.”
Located in Lichfield, Upstairs by Tom Shepherd opened in 2021.
