BaxterStorey has recognised chefs, managers, front-of-house teams, kitchen porters and other colleagues at its annual People Awards, held at The Pelligon in Canary Wharf.
The event brought together 300 colleagues from across the UK, Ireland, France and the Netherlands, with winners representing workplaces including law firms, financial institutions, football clubs and research institutes.
Launched in 2016, the awards recognise individuals and teams across BaxterStorey, with nominations submitted by colleagues and managers before finalists are assessed by an industry judging panel.
This year attracted 854 nominations, representing a 31% increase on 2025.
More than 200 team members were recognised through ten regional celebrations ahead of the London final.
The judging panel included chef Rinku Dutt, Jo Harley of Korero, Ed Vokes of Evolve Group and food writer Jenny Chandler.
The evening’s highest honour, the BaxterStorey Award, was presented to Isabell Rossi, Account Director for British Airways.
Rossi was recognised for her leadership of one of BaxterStorey’s largest operations, where she oversees a team of hundreds serving thousands of customers each day.
She also played a role in securing the extension of BaxterStorey’s long-standing partnership with British Airways, having worked on the account since 2013.
Darren Gilbertson, Operations Director for the Central and Wales region, was named Leader of the Year.
Gilbertson began his BaxterStorey career as a waiter and barista more than 20 years ago and became one of the youngest Operations Directors in the company’s history when he was appointed to the role in 2025.
He now leads more than 200 colleagues across 19 contracts and was also recognised for his work developing talent and supporting inclusion.
As an Inclusivity Champion, Gilbertson has mentored degree apprentices and worked with the Inclusive Employment Forum in Hounslow to support disadvantaged and neurodiverse young people into employment, including placements delivered with hospitality charity Springboard.
Karen Clarke, Client Relationship Manager, received the Support Champion of the Year award after 27 years with the business.
A new Judges’ Choice Award was also introduced for 2026, with the inaugural accolade presented to David Jegou, Chef de Cuisine at Grand Central in France.
Jegou was recognised after delivering a 300% increase in sales in under a year and developing bespoke menus for campaigns involving brands including Absolut and Lillet.
Guests at the awards were served a menu developed by WSH sister company Admirable Crichton, including caramelised artichoke heart with buffalo mozzarella cream and 35-day dry-aged beef sirloin with a braised short rib filo tart.
Chef Battle winners Domenico Papa and Maddie Clare created the dessert station, serving their Sticky Toffee ‘Not Miso’ Chocolate Mousse.
Chris Mitchell, COO at BaxterStorey, said: “Two years ago, I had the privilege of being part of the judging panel and left with a huge admiration for the incredible people across BaxterStorey. To now be standing here as part of the team, celebrating alongside our finalists and winners, makes this evening even more special.
“To be recognised from 854 nominations is an extraordinary achievement and a testament to the passion, dedication and impact these individuals and teams bring every day. Their commitment, talent and willingness to go the extra mile help define who we are as a business. We are immensely proud of all our finalists and winners and delighted to celebrate their success.”
The full list of winners comprised Isabell Rossi, BaxterStorey Award; Alex Pach, Chef of the Year; Jennifer Edwards, Chef Manager of the Year; Rio Garcia, Front of House Star; Steve Wilson, Gamechanger Award; Faiz Qurbani, Kitchen Porter of the Year; Darren Gilbertson, Leader of the Year; Kimberley Macdonald, Manager of the Year; Emma Bourke, Rising Star; Karen Clarke, Support Champion; M&G London, Team of the Year; and David Jegou, Judges’ Choice Award.