The Institute of Hospitality has announced the shortlist for its 2026 Annual Awards, marking its strongest year to date with a record number of nominations across all categories.
Recognising excellence across professional development, leadership, and inclusion, 33 individuals and businesses have been shortlisted for this year’s Institute of Hospitality Awards, which celebrate individuals, teams and organisations shaping the future of hospitality both in the UK and internationally.
The winners will be announced at the Institute of Hospitality Annual Dinner & Awards, taking place on 15 June 2026 at the JW Marriott Grosvenor House, London.
Robert Richardson FIH MI, Chief Executive of the Institute of Hospitality, said: “This year’s awards have seen an unprecedented level of interest, with more nominations than ever before. That in itself says a great deal about the strength, resilience and ambition across our industry.
“What stands out most is not just the volume, but the quality. The individuals, teams and organisations shortlisted represent the very best of hospitality, demonstrating real commitment to professional development, people, and raising standards across the industry.”
Institute of Hospitality Awards Shortlist 2026
Best Educational Programme 2026, Large Business – Sponsored by HIT Training
- University of Wales Trinity Saint David
- WSH
- Leonardo Hotels
- Dorchester Collection
- Compass Group UK & Ireland, Forward with Marcus Wareing
- Malmaison & Hotel du Vin
Best Educational Programme 2026, SME – Sponsored by HIT Training
- The CRUMBS Project
- Aviator Hampshire
- RBH Hospitality Management
- London Hotels Collection Ltd
Mentor of the Year Award 2026 – Sponsored by Aspire Pre Flight Hospitality
- Raj Chakraborty FIH
- Richard Lee FIH
- Paul Hunter FIH
- Sophie Louise Cox MIH
Outstanding Contribution to the Industry 2026 – Sponsored by Miele Professional
- Greg Mangham
- Miles Pooley FIH
- Liz Smith-Mills FIH
- Jonathan Foot FIH
- David Guile
- Mathew Shropshall FIH
Talent Development Team of the Year 2026, Large Business – Sponsored by Kersia Group
- Leonardo Hotels
- Red Carnation Hotels
- Shepherd Neame
- Malmaison & Hotel du Vin
Talent Development Team of the Year 2026, SME – Sponsored by Kersia Group
- Montcalm Collection
- Dominus Hospitality
- The Stanwell Hotel by Mercure
The Gregory De La Peña-Hall FIH Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging Employer of the Year Award 2026, Large Business – Sponsored by Bidfood
- Compass Group UK & Ireland
- Leonardo Hotels
- Macdonald Hotels & Resorts
The Gregory De La Peña-Hall FIH Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging Employer of the Year Award 2026, SME – Sponsored by Bidfood
- Montcalm Collection
- The Hari
- Marsham Court Hotel
The Institute of Hospitality CEO’s Award 2026, sponsored by CGA Integration, will be announced on the night. This special honour recognises an individual who has made an exceptional contribution to advancing the aims and objectives of the Institute of Hospitality.
The Institute’s Annual Awards continue to play a key role in recognising professional standards across the sector, highlighting best practice in education, talent development and inclusive workplace culture across the hospitality industry.
The greatly anticipated Hospitality Assured winners will also be announced on the night. Previous winners of their Excellence Awards have included top UK organisations; Lancashire County Council School Meals, Avery Healthcare, Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Trust, Morden College, Tattu and TLC Care.
As a UK charity, the Institute relies on its sponsors to support its activities.
Thank you to JW Marriott Grosvenor House, HIT Training, Aspire Pre Flight Hospitality, Miele Professional, Kersia Group, CGA Integration, Bidfood, Laurent-Perrier, Bolsius Professional, Be Wtr, EPS and IPW1 Printing for their continued support and commitment to this year’s IoH Annual Dinner & Awards and the Institute of Hospitality.
