CESA’s drive to tackle the skills shortage and push the foodservice industry to commit to higher levels of training will be given a boost at the Association’s 2018 Conference, with the announcement of two new awards. The Apprentice of the Year, sponsored by John Gilbert, will recognise the individual winner’s commitment, contribution and success in their workplace. The Training and Development Award will celebrate a company or an individual who has done outstanding work in supporting staff development.
The winners of both awards will be announced during the Gala dinner, to be held on Thursday 15 November. Glenn Roberts, who will pass on the baton of CESA chair to John Whitehouse during the conference, has made training and staff development key strategies during his two-year stewardship of the Association. “I’m delighted that we’ve been able to announce these awards now,” he says. “By shining a spotlight on apprenticeships and training we hope they will encourage and inspire individuals and companies.”
Dealing with disruption
The Conference theme this year is ‘Evolving in a disruptive environment.’ “With Brexit looming, the skills shortage is even more of a business threat,” adds Roberts. “We have to encourage young people to consider careers in foodservice and, at the same time, raise professionalism throughout the industry.”
To find out how to enter the awards, contact the CESA secretariat. The awards are open to all CESA members and associate members. Closing date for entries is 19 October.
The CESA Conference takes place at the De Vere Cotswold Water Park on 15 November, with a networking day and informal dinner on 14 November. The event is open to all foodservice industry professionals, including equipment manufacturers, suppliers and dealers, consultants and operators. CESA members receive a discount. To find out more and book tickets visit cesaconference.co.uk
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The Catering Equipment Suppliers Association (CESA) is the authoritative voice of the catering equipment industry, representing over 190 companies who supply, service and maintain all types of commercial catering equipment – from utensils to full kitchen schemes. For more information on CESA visit www.cesa.org.uk
