The 40th anniversary of The Cateys proved a very special night for our CEO Bill Toner. Bill was the deserved recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award.
He was awarded the prestigious honour at a fantastic ceremony at the JW Marriott Grosvenor House, London to a standing ovation from the packed ballroom of hospitality industry professionals, leaders and pioneers.
Described as a giant in the world of hospitality by James Stagg, the Editor of The Caterer on introducing the Lifetime Achievement Award, Bill was heralded for his ‘fantastic credentials as an operator and dealmaker’. James spoke of his “leading roles at caterers Sodexo, Aramark, and latterly CH&CO, driving the business as it has seen stunning development through acquisition and organic growth.”
Bill was also praised as a “generous supporter of the hospitality industry who has done much to encourage talent into the industry and support those developing their careers.”
“Throughout his career, Bill has actively promoted industry and business groups, ranging from being a Trustee on industry charities Hospitality Action and Springboard, to helping drive Adopt a School and the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts.”
Our chairman Tim Jones told The Cateys: “His ability to understand the needs of others is quite remarkable. He is innovative, loyal, has an extremely high moral code but above all, he is one of the most committed business leaders I have known.”
On receiving the award, a surprised and overwhelmed but joyous Bill paid tribute to his excellent teams that are instrumental in success and urged the audience to continue to support the associations and charities that do so much for hospitality, from attracting talent to supporting its people.
