The Institute of Hospitality Awards aim to celebrate the incredible work of hospitality professionals worldwide. The Institute of Hospitality’s CEO accolade was awarded to outgoing Institute chair Kellie Rixon MBE FIH.
Jill Whittaker received the Outstanding Contribution to the Industry accolade. The judges noted that Jill had given 'unwavering support' to the profession and helped thousands of young people in the industry through apprenticeships as a result of her varying roles at HIT Training.
Compass Group UK & Ireland and The Clink Charity won Best Educational Programme for large businesses and small businesses respectively.
The judges commented that the Compass educational programme was 'excellent' and effectively tackled the skills shortage of chefs in their own business incredibly successfully. The judges said that The Clink Charity's work with prisoners was 'outstanding'. Training over 830 students and delivering 550 qualifications in 2023.
Robert Richardson, chief executive of the IoH, said: “Our annual Awards and Dinner is always a very special occasion. It allows us to reflect on the fantastic achievements of our profession.
“From small to large organisations and from entry-level to established talent, this year’s winners have demonstrated that anybody from any background can thrive and excel in hospitality. I am incredibly proud to be part of such a talented industry of professionals. What they do every day, through their skills, passions and commitment to excellence, is what makes this industry great.”
Full list of winners:
- Compass Group UK & Ireland - Best Educational Programme 2024 (Large Business)
- The Clink Charity - Best Educational Programme 2024 (SMEs)
- Leonardo Hotels UK & Ireland - The Gregory De La Peña-Hall FIH Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging Employer of the Year 2024 (Large Business)
- Marsham Court Hotel - The Gregory De La Peña-Hall FIH Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging Employer of the Year 2024 (SMEs)
- Dorchester Collection - Talent Development Team of the Year 2024 (Large Business)
- Canopy by Hilton London City - Talent Development Team of the Year 2024 (SMEs)
- Jill Whittaker OBE FIH, HIT Training Ltd, UK - Outstanding Contribution to the Industry 2024 - Nominated by the Institute’s Fellows
- Kellie Rixon MBE FIH - The Institute of Hospitality CEO’s Award 2024