- Press Release - In the media

Elior and David Walliams recognise catering talent at annual awards

Contract caterer Elior UK has celebrated its outstanding colleagues at its annual Awards for Excellence.

Aptly, the awards were hosted by Britain’s Got Talent judge, David Walliams. 

Each of the 11 categories recognise an outstanding contribution towards Elior’s operations, from site managers to apprentices. More than 4,000 entries were received across each of the categories.

The event climaxed with a live vote from attendees in the ‘You Made a Difference’ category, which celebrates a team member who has gone above and beyond their duty in demonstrating Elior’s values. The results saw Timi Takacs, supervisor at St Bart’s Hospital, take the You Made a Difference top spot. She was commended for her personal approach to service, which supported patients through difficult periods and saw them return to the hospital to dine, even after they had been discharged.

Arran McDowell, Elior HR director says: “Elior’s colleagues are at the heart of what we do. They’re a crucial part of delivering a service where the whole experience matters, so it’s right that we make note of their contribution with a glittering awards ceremony. And who better to reward top talent than Britain’s Got Talent judge, David Walliams. I’d like to extend my congratulations to everyone nominated for an award.”

Each of the category winners receives a trip to Rome, followed by a seven night cruise around Italy on the luxury vessel, Star Clipper.

More than 200 guests from across the foodservice industry attended the event, held at 8 Northumberland Avenue, London. Elior’s UK Culinary Competition grand finalists prepared a three course lunch to mark the occasion.

Elior’s Awards for Excellence were announced as follows:

• Customer Service: Muharem Sumaric, food and beverage assistant, BT Murrayfield

• eXperience Service Champion: Carl Perkins, joint site lead, EE Plymouth

• Chef Award: Jav Aziz, executive head chef, Rangers F.C.

• Culinary Competition: Andy Jeff, chef manager, UPM Caledonian

• Star Site: BT Murrayfield

• Special Recognition: Nil Johnston, development chef, retail and Four Seasons Health Care

• Site Colleague of the Year: Emma Malcolm, cleaner, South Cerney

• Manager of the Year: Andrew Davies, site manager, Lulworth

• Support Services Colleague of the Year: Scott Allibone, operations manager, defence and vending

• Apprentice of the Year: Katy Keen, training administrator, learning & development

• You Made a Difference: Timi Takacs, supervisor, St Bart's Hospital