Armstrong, operations manager for The Genuine Dining Company, was declared the overall winner in front of over 200 hospitality guests. She is responsible for eight sites around London and training 40 members of staff.
Tim Jones, joint founder of CH&Co with his late wife Robyn, was one of the judges and said: “I would like to congratulate all of the entrants. I know that Robyn would have been very pleased with the winner and with the success of the awards. She would be very humbled that these awards continue in her name.”
The ACE Robyns award was created in 2016 in memory of Robyn Jones OBE founder of CH&Co and ‘champion’ of mentoring young hospitality talent.
The award is open to those under the age of 35 across a variety of contract catering roles. It recognises those excelling in foodservice and going the extra mile for customers and their team.
Managing director, Chris Mitchell picked up Rebecca’s award on her behalf, as she was unable to be at the event. Sales and marketing director, Danielle Mitchell said: “We are all thrilled for Rebecca. She was shortlisted last year, and has done so much in the last year, implementing new schemes and setting up charity initiatives. We’re a tribe with different personalities, but crucially common goals, and I know this will mean a lot to the whole team and our clients.”
Liam Hunter from CH&Co. finished in second place and due to the high standard of entries Emma Abruzzese from Vacherin and Charlotte Rouse from Baxtertorey were ‘highly commended’.
Armstrong and Hunter will be invited to sit on the board for the next year to ensure ACE considers the needs of the younger generation. Armstrong will also receive the Robyns Trophy and a lifetime membership of ACE.