Winners celebrated at Elior's eighth annual awards

Contract caterer Elior has celebrated its top employees at the company's eighth annual awards ceremony held at Gorton Monastery, Manchester.

The awards, this year hosted by BBC's Fiona Bruce (pictured far right with, from left, Tim Hammond, Polly Van Hagen and Martin Archer), recognise the achievements of individuals from across Elior's UK business.

There were nine winners out of 290 entries, including Polly van Hagen who took home the Innovation Award. The general manager at B&Q, Portswood, was recognised for increasing sales by 67% and growing margin and EBIT (earnings before interest and tax) through daily sales promotions, marketing materials promoting local sourcing and green issues, and running farmers markets with nominated suppliers.

Gill Heath, catering manager at law firm DLA Piper in Leeds, won the Customer Service Award after she impressed the judges with her passion and sales figures. She was recognised for creating a service culture that helps the business to retain customers and remain ahead of its retail competitors.

Justin Johnson, head of HR services, Elior, congratulated all the winners and finalists. "In the current climate and competitive environment in which Elior operates, it's vital that we show our appreciation for all the hard work they've invested," he said.

Award winners:

Customer Service Gill Heath, catering manager, B&I East

Innovation Polly Van Hagen, general manager, B&I South

Professionalism Carolyn Charlesworth, management accounts team leader, Finance

Responsibility Nicky Ensell, operations support, B&I North, West, Central & Scotland

Rising Star Marie Preece, hospitality manager, EIS

Chef Award Jim Williams, head chef, B&I North, West, Central & Scotland

Culinary Competition Jav Aziz, executive head chef, Azure

Star Site Grace Academy, Solihull, Education

Employee of the Year Kath Yardley-Turpin, group manager, Education

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By Janie Stamford

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