In the section Backstage, interesting personalities from the financial sector and beyond provide insights into their personal preferences every Wednesday.

What do you do first in the morning?

I usually get up one or two hours before my day really begins because I like to take my time in the morning. My routine includes a large coffee, catching up on the previous day's news, a leisurely breakfast and a long shower. Then I head to work with the music turned up loud – or stop by the gym first. That's my idea of the perfect start to the day.

What is the best part of your job?

There are many great things about my profession. What I particularly appreciate are the artistic and human aspects: the freedom to be creative and develop my own signature style, as well as working with my team and the joy we can bring to our guests through what we do.

A moment that changed your life?

Joining Andreas Caminada's team. That experience had a profound impact on me, both professionally and personally, and played a decisive role in shaping my career.

What cars do you own? Which is your favorite?

I drive an Audi RS Q3 Sportback. My absolute dream cars include the Ford GT and the Nissan GT-R.

What advice would you give to your 20-year-old self?

I would advise myself to take more time before becoming a head chef and gain experience at one or two more establishments first. I was able to make up for some of that during the renovation-related closure of IGNIV Bad Ragaz. I would also tell my younger self to live more consciously, be a little more sensible and stop constantly pushing my own limits.

What are you particularly proud of?

I'm proud of having picked myself up after every setback and repeatedly found the motivation to keep going. I've never lost sight of my goals and have pursued them consistently, even when that meant making personal sacrifices.

What do you do when you have doubts?

When I have doubts, I take time to reflect and assess the situation as objectively as possible. I try to understand where those doubts are coming from and consider what the most sensible next step would be.

What is your favorite wine?

I don't have a particular favourite wine, as I don't know enough about wine to choose one. However, I really enjoy full-bodied, dry Bordeaux wines.

What projects are you currently working on?

Right now, my focus is on one clear goal: working with my team to earn two Michelin stars again and achieve 18 GaultMillau points for IGNIV.

What do you admire in other people?

I admire patience in others.

What would be the biggest surprise for someone who had to take over your job for a day?

Probably how much time I spend solving problems and removing obstacles. That accounts for at least half of my working day – cooking is only one part of my job.

What is your personal drive?

My ambition is to become one of the best chefs in Switzerland and, through that achievement, create the opportunity to bring my own ideas and visions to life.

What are you afraid of?

Heights – I prefer to keep both feet firmly on the ground.

Your favorite watch brand?

Audemars Piguet.

Is there an unfulfilled dream you would still like to realize?

I dream of one day successfully establishing my own business, becoming independent and bringing my own culinary vision to life.

Your best investment?

The time and energy I've invested in my family and closest friendships.

Joël Ellenberger has been the executive chef at IGNIV by Andreas Caminada in Bad Ragaz — which has been awarded two Michelin stars and 17 GaultMillau points — since 2022. Prior to that, he gained experience at Badrutt’s Palace and Schloss Schauenstein, where he rose to the position of sous chef. While IGNIV Bad Ragaz was closed for renovations, he worked at IGNIV Bangkok until the end of August. The restaurant in Bad Ragaz will reopen in mid-December.