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Corporate Guest Services Awards 2026: Winners announced
The winners of the Receptionist of the Year, Reception Leader of the Year and Workplace Host of the Year were celebrated
The winners of the Corporate Guest Services Awards 2026 were announced at the awards ceremony held on 24 June and recognised outstanding talent across the corporate guest services sector.
Following a highly competitive process, which included written submissions, semi-final assessments and a final evaluation stage, this year’s awards brought together the very best professionals across three categories: Receptionist of the Year, Reception Leader of the Year and Workplace Host of the Year.
Recognising excellence across the industry
The 2026 competition saw an exceptionally high standard of entries, with finalists demonstrating professionalism, creativity and a strong commitment to delivering outstanding guest and workplace experiences.
Dirk Talsma, chair of the Corporate Guest Services Awards, said: “This year’s competition has once again demonstrated the exceptional calibre of talent across the corporate guest services sector. The dedication, professionalism and passion shown by all finalists have been truly inspiring. These awards continue to highlight the evolving nature of guest services roles and the significant impact these professionals have on workplace experience.”
Giles Gordon Smith, head judge, added: “The standard of candidates this year was exceptionally high, making the judging process both rewarding and challenging. Each finalist brought a unique perspective, a strong sense of purpose and a clear commitment to excellence. Selecting the winners required careful consideration across all stages of the competition.”
Receptionist of the Year
Winners of Receptionist of the Year 2026
For the first time in the history of the awards, two winners have been selected in the Receptionist of the Year category, reflecting the outstanding performances demonstrated throughout the competition.
Winners
Afroditi Sachinidou, Anabas Welcome
Michael Kelly, Portico
Highly commended
Erin McAvoy, Baillie Gifford
Reception Leader of the Year
Winner of Reception Leader of the Year 2026
The Reception Leader of the Year category recognises individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, inspiring their teams and delivering high standards of guest service.
Winner
Sophie Brandi, Rapport Guest Services
Runner-up
Mariia Vdovychenko, Lexington Reception Services
Highly commended
Leia Hayes, Amika Guest Services — OCS
Workplace Host of the Year
Winner of Workplace Host of the Year 2026
Introduced for 2026, the Workplace Host of the Year category reflects the growing importance of workplace hospitality roles focused on community, engagement and experience.
Winner
Rob Cooke, Rapport Guest Services
Runner-up
Paulina Kobylska, Portico
Highly commended
Mikey O’Neill, Amplify Guest Services
A celebratory evening for the industry
The ceremony showcased the strength and diversity of the corporate guest services profession, bringing together industry leaders, finalists and judging panel members for an evening of recognition and celebration.
Matt Bowers, managing director of Portico, said: “Recognising talent celebrates the service professionals who shape our industry and influence workplace culture every day. The Corporate Guest Services Awards showcases excellence, inspires future growth in people and highlights the vital role of guest services in creating exceptional experiences, strengthening organisational culture and delivering lasting value for clients, end users and visitors.”
The organisers extend their sincere thanks to the Portico team for hosting the event and supporting the delivery of a memorable evening.
Looking ahead
As the Corporate Guest Services Awards continue to grow, the 2026 edition reinforces the importance of recognising the individuals who shape guest and workplace experiences across the corporate sector.
The awards will return next year to continue celebrating excellence and raising standards across the industry.
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