At a gala reception during this week’s Hospital Caterers Association’s Leadership & Development Forum, the 2025 National Award winners were announced.
HEFMA sponsors the Sustainability Award, which this year was won by the Catering Management Team at Sheffield Teaching Hospitals. David Moss, HEFMA’s National Chair, presented the award to the winning team.
Other winners included Nottingham University Hospital (Catering Service of the Year), Margaret Valenti from NHS Greater Glasgow & Clyde (Rising Star), Dr Mabel Blades of the Oxford Branch (Leadership Excellence), HCA National Finance Director Caroline Darvill (Special Contribution), former National Chair Brian Robb (Wilma Wilkie Outstanding Service), London & South East Branch (Chairman’s Choice) and Cuisine Centre (Best Trade Stand). The coveted Hospital Caterer of the Year was awarded to Francesco (Frank) Fiore, Catering Manager at Milton Keynes University Hospital, in recognition of the significant contribution he has made to the wellbeing and recovery of patients, the patient experience and to staff and visitors who use the services.
National Chair, Iain Robertson said: “I congratulate all the winners, and those that made this year’s shortlist. We had more entries than ever and the task of selecting the winners has been exceptionally hard. It makes me incredibly proud to lead such a talented group of committed caterers.”
Speaking after the awards, Brian Robb said that he was “overwhelmed and humbled” with the recognition. It was a feeling that was echoed by Caroline Darvill, who said “I’m lost for words. What we [the Branch Treasurers] do is essential to the viability of the Association. I would thank the team as they are the engines that drive the Association.”
