José Gómez
Professional Jury - Spain
The fifth generation of the Gómez family is at the helm of the company. While his brother, Juan Luis, oversees the farm work, the labor, and the yields of the pastures where the Joselito pigs graze, José devoted himself to the factory, the brand, and the company's international expansion. Long before exporting was a common activity, this entrepreneur was a pioneer in opening new markets at a time when there was little knowledge of Spanish cuisine, and of Iberian ham in particular. With his tireless tenacity, he has ensured that an unparalleled product, a symbol of Spanish gastronomy, has conquered palates in countless places around the world, reaching the most prominent restaurants and gourmet shops in 56 countries, from Australia to Europe and from America to Asia. His obsession with quality and tireless work have taken Joselito Ham to the top of the international gastronomic scene, participating in major global gastronomic events and in events alongside luxury brands such as Dom Perignon, Rolls Royce, and Loewe, with whom he regularly collaborates. Furthermore, designer Andrés Sardá, architect Rafael Moneo, and musician Ara Malikian have collaborated on Joselito's exclusive premium collections. All this work has brought with it awards that endorse the importance of the work carried out by José and his company: the 2006 National Gastronomy Award and also in 2018, the Amec Award for "Best Product of Spain," the AECA Award for "Best Businessman and Manager of the Year," Honorary Member of the Gastronomic Club of Madrid, the Gaztelupe Award, and the Product Quality Award at Gastronomika 2006 San Sebastián.