From the Cutting Board to Community: Henry’s 20-Year Culinary Journey with Shannex 
December 26, 2025
When Henry Brown first walked through the doors of a Shannex community, it wasn’t to start a new career – it was to visit his father.
His dad, a longtime chef himself, had recently moved into one of the residences. Henry came by often, and over time, those visits sparked something deeper. With a growing interest in cooking and a desire for meaningful work, he applied for a role in the kitchen. That was more than two decades ago. Today, Henry is the Culinary Manager at West Bedford Transitional Health, a state-of-the-art Shannex community, and his passion for the work is as strong as ever.
“I started in this profession later in life – in my late twenties – because I wanted to try something new,” he says. “My dad was a chef, so I said, ‘Why not?’ I’ve been cooking ever since.”
Crafting Care, One Meal at a Time
Henry’s day starts early. He walks into the kitchen each morning and checks in on how things went the night before. Then it’s time to get to work – chopping, prepping, making soups and salads, ensuring everything is ready for the residents and patients upstairs.
“When you’re cooking for 30, 50, even 100 people, everyone has different needs and preferences. Some love my shepherd’s pie, some don’t,” he says with a smile. “The hardest part is trying to meet people in the middle. But that’s also what makes it rewarding.”
His approach goes far beyond simply preparing meals. For Henry, food is an extension of care – a way to bring comfort, nourishment, and familiarity to people navigating times of transition.
“This isn’t a restaurant where if you don’t like the food, you just don’t come back,” he says. “Our patients depend on us. That’s why feedback is so important. I always ask my cooks to check in with people — to see how dinner was, what we could improve. That feedback helps us get better.”
A New Chapter at Transitional Health
After many years and several roles across Shannex communities, Henry saw the opportunity to join the team at West Bedford Transitional Health, a newly opened facility dedicated to short-term care and rehabilitation.
“I’d been in my previous role for a while and felt like I needed a change,” he explains. “When this new building opened, I talked to my boss and decided it was the right move. Plus, I like shiny new things,” he adds with a laugh.
What he found at West Bedford was more than a fresh start — it was a tight-knit team, a supportive environment, and a renewed sense of purpose.
Advice for the Next Generation
For anyone considering a career at Shannex, Henry offers honest advice grounded in years of experience.
“Be ready to work hard, stay humble, and be part of a team. We’ve built a great culture here. Everyone supports one another, and we all take pride in what we do. Come to work because you care, because you want to make a difference, and because the work matters.”
That mindset has carried Henry through two decades of growth, learning, and meaningful moments. And he’s not slowing down.
“Every job I’ve had at Shannex has taught me something. I’ve enjoyed every one of them. And I still look forward to what’s next — whether that’s in a year, two years, or five. You never know where your path might lead.”
Start Your Career with Purpose
Henry’s story is just one of many across Shannex – people who found more than a job. They found a community, a calling, and the chance to grow.
Explore our current opportunities and start your journey today: shannex.com/careers
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