The awards brought together leading entrepreneurs, innovators and executives from across the country for a night of celebration, networking, and entertainment with guest speakers including Sir Bob Geldof and George Clooney as well as comperes Rob Brydon and Elaine C Smith.
Sodexo, an employer of more than 30,000 people across the UK and Ireland, says it was ‘proud’ to then be named the overall winner for its leadership in creating meaningful opportunities, careers and training within and outside of its business.
The judges highlighted Sodexo’s nomination stood out for the significant initiatives in its Social Impact Pledge 2030 that support social mobility, food poverty through the Sodexo Stop Hunger Foundation and supporting colleagues through training, development and entry level career pathways.
Sodexo leads its sector with pioneering inclusive recruitment, transparent pay gap reporting, celebrated employee culture, and community investment. Through initiatives like Starting Fresh, culinary academies, levy gifting, and the Stop Hunger Foundation, Sodexo delivers measurable and sustained social impact at scale.
Jean Renton, chief executive of Sodexo UK & Ireland, said: “I am incredibly proud that we have been named Employer of the Year at such prestigious awards because it recognises what we strongly believe - that investing in colleagues, opening up opportunity and doing the right thing for society creates lasting positive impact for individuals, communities and our wider industry.
“It shows how a strong employee culture and inclusive approach are key to driving sustainable growth and long-term success. Sodexo was founded 60 years ago on the belief that economic and social progress go hand in hand. Our purpose to improve quality of life for all and use our scale as a force for good – remains at the heart of Sodexo today.”