In pictures: The Caterer’s People Summit 2026 and the Best Places to Work in Hospitality awards

The Caterer’s deputy editor Caroline Baldwin welcomed attendees and introduced the discussions and speakers to come.

Fika Catering provided a lunch of herb-marinated chicken supreme with confit garlic, harissa pumpkin, pearl barley and black garlic dressing, and miso-glazed aubergine with sesame and scallions.

Founder of coaching and mentoring business QAB Leadership Michelle Moreno led a panel discussion featuring previous winners of the Best Employer Award, exploring what it takes to become one of the Best Places to Work in Hospitality.

Liz McGivern, Vicky Freeman, Sam Coulstock and Jo Harley all shared their insights in how to become a Best Place to Work in Hospitality.

Moreno asked delegates to break into small groups to discuss key findings from the Best Places to Work in Hospitality survey.

Delegates catch some fresh air on the outside terrace at the Line, London, between sessions.

With two half-hour networking breaks built into the day, delegates had plenty of opportunity to connect, discuss ideas and reflect on the insights shared during the previous sessions.

Gina Knight spoke to attendees about how career paths are evolving from traditional step ladders into “squiggly” journeys, and shared insight into building managers’ capabilities so they can better support their teams.

Josh Bright, managing director at Bright Ideas Consulting, led a highly engaging hackathon session with Harley, where delegates collaborated on challenges before presenting their ideas to the room.

Delegates discussing some real-sector issues affecting people and teams such as recruitment to AI adoption.

A delegate feeding back her table’s ideas.

Sue Walter, chief executive of social club the Roof Gardens in Kensington, London, shared her journey from HR director to securing a place in the C-suite.

After the summit wrapped up, guests enjoyed a glass of NV Monopolio Prosecco Spumante Organic, Cantina di Gambellara, Veneto, Italy, and a selection of canapés, including braised lamb shoulder with spiced romanesco, and red onion tartlets with Sussex brie and crispy shallots.

The People Summit culminated in presenting the awards to the top 30 Best Places to Work in Hospitality, followed by drinks and bowl food on the terrace.