IBelong @ Searcys People Awards 2025

Celebrating Excellence: The 2025 Ibelong @ Searcys Awards Winners

Every year, our Awards recognise individuals and teams who have demonstrated outstanding achievements in their respective fields. The 2025 edition was no exception, celebrating talent, innovation, and dedication across various categories. The winners were honoured at prestigious venues, adding to the grandeur of the event. This year, we have received record 441 nominations for 16 categories.  This year, our awards returned to the stunning Church House in Westminster.

Searcys MD Paul Jackson says: “Our iBelong @ Searcys Awards celebrate our superstars, and your remarkable achievements in what has been a truly record-breaking year for Searcys.

Tonight, is also an opportunity for me to thank each-and-every one of you for your dedication, professionalism, flair and hard work.  I am proud and honoured to stand alongside such remarkable individuals as we celebrate creating something incredibly special, incredibly powerful and have some fun along the way, for our clients and teams.

We have grown, we have excelled, and we have made history.  Growth is so important, not least, so we can carve out career opportunities for you, our wonderful Searcys family.”

And the winners are…

Exceptional Customer Service – Cintya Martins, 116 Pall Mall
Cintya Martins was recognized for her outstanding dedication to customer service. Her unwavering commitment to ensuring every client interaction is smooth, personalized, and exceptional has set her apart as a true leader in her field.

Innovation Excellence – A&O Shearman Pastry Team
The A&O Shearman Pastry Team received this award for their innovative approach to pastry, redefining industry standards with their creativity and skill. Their groundbreaking techniques and imaginative flavors have impressed customers and experts alike.

Rising Star – Jessica Malandra, The View, Royal College of Surgeons
Jessica Malandra has quickly emerged as an industry trailblazer, demonstrating remarkable growth, enthusiasm, and dedication. Her ability to take on challenges and excel in her role has earned her the Rising Star title.

Salesperson Of The Year – Shelley Ann Rowe, The Gherkin
With her unparalleled sales acumen, Shelley Ann Rowe has driven impressive business results, proving her expertise and effectiveness in the sales domain. Her ability to connect with clients and exceed expectations has made her an industry standout.

Exceptional Support Person – Alexandra da Costa, 116 Pall Mall
Alexandra da Costa plays a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation of her organisation. Her dedication, efficiency, and behind-the-scenes contributions make her an invaluable asset to her team.

Supervisor/Manager Of The Year Award – Agnes Kenesi Portrait Restaurant

The winner of this award is an exceptional leader whose dedication, vision, and support inspire the team to excel. Through their innovative approach and continuous commitment, they have delivered remarkable results, fostered collaboration, and cultivated a positive workplace culture.

Kitchen Porter of the Year – Flavio Barros, 116 Pall Mall

The winner of this award is described as incredibly hard working, committed and thorough in their work.  Welcoming and training new team members, supporting other departments, and always ensuring the highest of standards.

Second Nature Champion – 30 Euston Square

The team has collaborated with many charities, has had focused management team training on EDI, has shown proactive action against their Sustainability Assessment and a clear stream of ESG focused content on social media.   New reporting structures focused purely on ESG have supported in providing confidence to our client that we are taking action.  ESG is embedded in the daily thought process of this team.

Team Spirit – The View, Royal College of Surgeons         

Described as an incredible group of professionals; they exemplify what it means to work cohesively, demonstrating outstanding collaboration and mutual respect while delivering exceptional service to both internal and external clients.  The synergy between the Venue Sales

Unsung Hero – Usman Tobin, A&O Shearman

Usman has been described as a valued member of the team, always offering support with kindness and a genuine desire to help. Working for Searcys for over 20 years his commitment and passion for the role is undeniable, his colleagues say the unit would not be the same without him.

Health & Safety Excellence – Inner Temple

The award recognised dedication of the team that has gone above and beyond to ensure the safety of every person within their workplace. The team we are celebrating today have not only met safety standards but have set new benchmarks for what true health and safety excellence looks like.

General Manager Of The Year – Rupert Outram, 116 Pall Mall

Rupert has been described as an incredible leader, who is well respected across the venue. The team at this venue continue to grow, as do the sales and excellent mystery shopper results. The team out of their way to ensure we have happy clients and a great morale within the team.

Chef Of The Year – Jedd Tucker  Searcys Events

The winner of this award exemplifies professionalism, meticulous organization, and an unwavering commitment to culinary excellence. Their passion for food and dedication to doing things the right way has earned them admiration and recognition from their peers. Their attention to detail, innovative ideas, and ability to showcase Searcys’ values and vision have been instrumental in securing new opportunities for the company.

Venue of the year (less than 40 team members) – National Army Museum        

The competition was tough for this award!  Known as a venue that prides itself on creating an inclusive and welcoming space where everyone feels valued and celebrated. The winners of this award have consistently exceeded expectations, providing not only an inspiring and unique setting but also outstanding service, food and support.

Venue of the year (more than 40 team members) – Searcys at the Gherkin

The winning venue had to demonstrate ESG initiatives, people development, sales growth and how this had a big impact on our company.  The winning venue team has delivered another record-breaking year. They host summer parties, spectacular New Years Eve events, afternoon teas, Searcys Inductions and iBelong Breakfasts, amongst many other things.

And a very special award of the year….John Searcy Award – Tomas Siskevicius, The Gherkin

The award recognises an exceptional individual within our business. The winner of this year’s John Searcy Award has been described by their colleagues as having relentless dedication and although works behind the scenes; is the backbone of the restaurant. No task is too big and no challenge not achievable.

When working back of house, you can often feel that your efforts go unnoticed, but I have read all the nominations for this person and can assure you his team know how valuable he is, truly appreciate his hard work and love working with him.

The 2025 iBelong @ Searcys Awards has been a powerful reminder of the extraordinary talent, dedication, and heart that drive our business forward every day. From innovation in the kitchen to excellence in service, leadership, and teamwork, each winner and nominee embodies the values that make Searcys so special. As we look ahead to another exciting year, we do so with immense pride in our people and with gratitude for the passion they bring to everything they do. Congratulations once again to all our winners – you truly make Searcys shine.

A special thank you to all our suppliers:

LVMH, Off to Work, Direct Seafoods, Change Group, LP, Indeed Flex, Stalbridge, Fenns of Piccadilly, County Supplies, Breathe, Ritter, Vegetarian Express, AB Inbev, Coople, Jascotts, BCS, Gerard Bertrand, Wild Idol, Everleaf, Small Beer.