Lexington chef wins Londonloves Talent apprentice award
Lexington Catering chef Louise Roberts was named Apprentice of the Year at the Londonloves Talent awards.
The event, held at London Marriott Grosvenor Square, honoured businesses and individuals that champion talent, leadership and workforce development.
Roberts was one of the first people to take part in Lexington's chef apprenticeship programme, in 2011. She is now based at the caterer's City client Berwin Leighton Paisner (BLP), where she works in the staff restaurant.
Lexington chef director Robert Kirby said it was Roberts energy and fighting spirit that set her apart from others.
"She immerses herself in companywide activity, always being the first to volunteer her time for large company events and wanting to get as much exposure and experience as possible," he continued.
"Louise has a can-do approach, a great work ethic and I can see her becoming an ambassador for not just our apprenticeship scheme but for the whole industry. She was one of our very first apprentices to take part in Lex School of Talent so it is wonderful to see her win apprentice of the year."
Sam Coulstock, business relations manager & head of special projects at Springboard Charity, added: "Louise first came to Springboard not certain what she wanted to do. After a taster session with Lexington, she then applied for the Lex School of Talent and impressed the room at a recruitment day with her enthusiasm and passion to learn. A day I will always remember.
"Louise has embraced the apprenticeship scheme and gone from strength to strength. She is a true Ambassador for Hospitality and Young People and is a role model for everyone."
Former chief secretary to the treasury and secretary of defence Michael Portillo hosted the awards, which was attended by 500 business leaders.