John Willoughby joined Gourmet magazine as executive editor in February 2001. Prior to Gourmet, Mr. Willoughby was for seven years the senior editor of Cooks Illustrated, as well as a freelance writer and the co-author, with Chris Schlesinger, of a monthly feature in the New York Times food section. He and Chris also co-authored eight cookbooks, mainly about grilling, meat, and spicy food.