Tracey Smith named chief executive of Sodexo’s education arm

Tracey Smith has been appointed chief executive of Sodexo UK & Ireland’s schools and universities division.

She takes over from Philip Smith, who was promoted to the role in March 2022 after nearly 15 years in the business.

Smith will be responsible for overseeing a portfolio of over 450 state and 60 independent schools, as well as 105 university sites across the UK.

She joined Sodexo 10 years ago as business development director for universities, and in 2020, she was promoted to sales director for schools and universities. She also has over 30 years’ industry experience.

Over the past year, the education caterer and facilities management (FM) provider has secured £16.6m in new business, having added independent schools such as Shrewsbury School and St Leonards School, St Andrews, into its roster of clients. 

Sean Haley, chief executive of Sodexo UK and Ireland, said: “Tracey has exceptional client relationships, market knowledge and a driving passion to deliver the best food and ‘home from home’ services that enhance the learning experience for the pupils and students we serve every day. Tracey is a natural choice for this role and I am delighted to welcome her to the regional leadership team.”

Smith added: “I am delighted to continue my career at Sodexo and thank outgoing CEO, Phil Smith for all he has done to create such a strong and talented team. Our commitment is to deliver healthy, nutritious, sustainable food services and ensure we make a positive impact on the communities we serve every day.”

Sodexo’s universities business is overseen by managing director Simon Knight and includes the delivery of on-campus food and FM services at around 100 university locations across the UK and Ireland.