Shining a Light on our Be A Star Winners

Last year, three remarkable members of the Cuisine Centre team in St Albans – Sarah Appleyard, Justyna Hill, and Chris Dartnall – went above and beyond to assist a colleague in need. When a teammate fell acutely ill, they were the first to respond, using their first aid training to ensure the individual received urgent medical attention. 

Their actions did not go unnoticed. Karl Mansoor, our Operations Director, nominated each of them for Compass' prestigious Be A Star recognition programme, which celebrates exceptional achievements by team members across the UK and Ireland. Their quick thinking and compassion earned them awards in the Helping Colleagues category. 

On the morning of Friday, July 26th, Sarah Appleyard, Justyna Hill, and Chris Dartnall sprang into action when a colleague required urgent medical assistance. As trained First Aiders, their skills were put to the test as they became the first responders on the scene.

Their swift intervention stabilised their colleague until emergency services arrived. Their calm and composed demeanour during such a high-pressure situation was instrumental in providing essential care.

Their outstanding efforts were recognised by Karl Mansoor, our Operations Director, who nominated them for this award. We are incredibly proud to have Sarah, Justyna, and Chris as part of the Cuisine Centre team and thrilled to see them receive this well-deserved honour.

As part of the Be A Star programme, Sarah, Justyna, and Chris each received a certificate, a Be A Star pin, and a cash reward. Award winners also get to enjoy a day off with their nominator, featuring a celebratory lunch alongside other deserving colleagues.

The lunch includes a special menu crafted by our talented chefs, along with exclusive VIP treatment from the showcase experience. All Be A Star winners are then put forward for the end-of-year ‘Legend’ title, with a generous £/€10,000 cash prize. 

2024's Be A Star ‘Legend’ award went to Tiffany Underwood, an ESS Customer Service Assistant who went the extra mile during a major flood at a military base. Tiffany was crowned the winner in recognition of her ‘extraordinary efforts’ and kindness when she lent a helping hand to 27 families affected by the severe weather.

Tiffany not only helped recover their belongings and find them alternative accommodation but also welcomed a family and their pets into her home for a week. Her actions stood out among over 2,000 nominations, earning her the grand prize of £10,000.

To find out more about the winners and more details on Compass’ recognition programme, visit https://www.compassgroupcareers.com/recognition/