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Chloe Lafosse
Zero-waste activist - Serial Entrepreneur
Professional Background
Chloe Vichot Lafosse has made a remarkable transformation from a successful finance career to becoming a leading figure in the culinary world. With a wealth of experience spanning over a decade in the finance industry, Chloe decided to embrace her passion for food and hospitality, marking a pivotal moment in her professional journey. In 2012, she took the brave step to pursue her dream of opening her own food business. Her culinary education began in earnest with two diplomas from the prestigious International Culinary Center, followed by a Culinary Management Degree from the Institute of Culinary Education, where she was honored with the leadership award.
In early 2015, Chloe made a bold move by leaving her full-time finance job to join the team at the renowned Michelin-starred restaurant, Eleven Madison Park. This experience exposed her to the highest echelons of fine dining and hospitality, igniting her entrepreneurial spirit and solidifying her resolve to create her own culinary venture. Armed with newfound skills and insights, Chloe launched Ancolie, a vision of her ideal eatery that opened its doors in 2016 in the charming West Village of Manhattan.
Education and Achievements
Chloe's formal education has laid a solid foundation for her versatile career path. She graduated with a Master's in Finance from Sciences Po Paris, one of Europe’s leading institutions known for its rigorous programs and alumni network. Additionally, she holds a Degree in Business Administration from Université Paris Dauphine - PSL, enhancing her understanding of the business aspects of culinary operations.
Her culinary credentials began to flourish at the International Culinary Center and by achieving a Culinary Management Degree from the Institute of Culinary Education. It was here that Chloe not only honed her kitchen skills but also demonstrated her leadership potential, as evidenced by her receiving a prestigious leadership award.
Chloe’s commitment to sustainability and innovation in her culinary endeavors demonstrated her solid understanding of pressing contemporary challenges. Ancolie received the coveted four-star rating from the Green Restaurant Association, establishing it as a paragon of sustainability within New York City's vibrant food scene. Her restaurant significantly reduced the use of disposable packaging, opting instead for reusable glass jars, showcasing her dedication to environmental stewardship.
In 2018, she co-founded Fresh Bowl, pioneering the first plastic-free vending machine offering fresh, healthy food. Through her work, she has become an advocate against food waste, focusing on innovative solutions to tackle this critical issue since 2020.
Recognitions
Chloe’s contributions to the food industry have not gone unnoticed. She has been recognized by the Cherry Bomb organization as one of the 100 Inspiring Women in the food industry, an accolade that reflects her impact and influence in changing the narrative around sustainability and home cooking. Additionally, Ancolie has garnered various awards, including the Most Innovative Award by the Green Restaurant Association—a testament to her vision and commitment to creating a sustainable food environment.
Early Career in Finance
Before embracing her culinary aspirations, Chloe built a robust career in the finance sector. For over ten years, she excelled as a derivatives salesperson at several esteemed institutions, including Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Societe Generale, and BNP Paribas. Her expertise in international market-linked investments showcased her remarkable analytical ability and her commitment to delivering exceptional service to clients. Her time in finance not only equipped her with strategic business acumen but also contributed to her professional demeanor, attention to detail, and ability to manage complex tasks under pressure.
Community Involvement
Beyond her entrepreneurial ventures, Chloe has actively contributed to the community by joining the CCE (French Foreign Trade Advisor’s) association since 2017. This role allows her to leverage her experience and knowledge to assist others in navigating the complexities of international markets, reinforcing her commitment to giving back and fostering collaboration within the economic landscape.
Personal Life and Interests
Born in Paris, Chloe has spent 16 years in New York City, where she has blended her French heritage with her New York lifestyle. In her personal life, she cherishes spending quality time with her friends and family, indulging her passion for travel, and hitting the slopes during skiing season.
Chloe Vichot Lafosse exemplifies the power of following one’s passion, demonstrating how resilience and dedication can drive one to create meaningful change in both the culinary world and broader society. Her ongoing commitment to sustainability, innovation, and community service positions her as a prominent figure in the food industry, and as she continues her work, there is no doubt she will inspire many more aspiring entrepreneurs along the way.
