Tinsley started working for the company on their very first day of trading in 1989, when it was known as Discovery Foods before their transition to Santa Maria in 2009.
His career began as a result of his enthusiasm for Mexican food. While working in sales for a frozen food wholesaler he spotted James Beaton and Marshall Young, a Texan foodie, demonstrating Mexican food at the Brighton Fast Food Fair.
Tinsley said: “This was 30 years ago, so at the time, Enchiladas and Nachos had not been seen before in the UK. It was fascinating and I knew that I wanted to make these widely available.”
Mexican cuisine is now ranked as one of the most popular street foods among consumers.
Tinsley, a keen cook himself, has seen many of his home recipes included in Santa Maria’s concepts and products.
He added: “I’m proud of having played a major part in developing Mexican food within foodservice. Helping to make this tasty food popular and taking it into the mainstream and onto menus has been a highlight.”
Steve Kent, marketing and business development director at Santa Maria Foodservice, said: “Bob demonstrates perfect integrity and is always true to his own values. I admire him for his dedication and ability to go the extra mile.”
Santa Maria has been trading in the spice business since the beginning of the 10th century and is part of the Paulig Group.