Clarke Tomlinson

Clarke Tomlinson was promoted to Chief Operating Officer of Erth Abu Dhabi in July 2025, after joining the organization in 2023 as General Manager of Hospitality within the corporate catering division. Tomlinson brings more than two decades of hospitality experience spanning the UAE, UK, and Australia, and is recognized for his ability to deliver strong P&L performance and lead diverse teams across large-scale operations and multi-site catering businesses.

Tomlinson's career spans high-volume contract catering, Michelin-starred restaurants, luxury five-star hotels and international airport lounges. He led catering operations at Etihad Airways for six years, overseeing large-scale, multi-site operations, and held senior leadership roles as head chef at prestigious venues including Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire and Dubai's Habtoor Grand Resort & Spa. His education includes Hospitality & Catering Management at Oxford & Cherwell Valley College Chef School.

During his tenure at Erth Abu Dhabi, Tomlinson has been credited with driving innovation in catering operations, introducing new service verticals, and improving profitability. His analytical approach and people-first leadership style have helped strengthen the division's foundation for growth. Under his leadership, the corporate catering arm has strengthened its market position through operational excellence and a strong focus on guest satisfaction.

Career History

• Chief Operating Officer, Erth Abu Dhabi (July 2025–present)
• General Manager of Hospitality, Erth Abu Dhabi Corporate Catering Division (2023–July 2025)
• Catering Operations Leader, Etihad Airways (six years prior to 2023)
• Head Chef, Habtoor Grand Resort & Spa, Dubai
• Head Chef, Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire

What Tomlinson could bring to his COO role at Erth Abu Dhabi: Drawing on two decades of experience spanning high-volume contract catering, luxury Michelin-starred establishments, and international airport operations, Tomlinson is positioned to drive operational excellence across Erth's broader hospitality portfolio. His demonstrated track record in scaling multi-site catering operations, improving profitability, and leading diverse teams—combined with his hands-on background as a trained chef—equips him to modernize operations while maintaining service standards as the organization pursues its ambitious regional expansion plans across the Gulf.