Four Compass winners crowned
The Caterer’s prestigious Acorn Awards took place on 7 -8th June and have seen four Compass colleagues named amongst the thirty - which lists the hospitality industry’s rising stars under the age of 30.
The event now in its 40th year, is run by The Caterer and supported by longstanding headline sponsor CH&CO. The awards celebrate the brightest young people shaping hospitality at an early stage in their careers and recognise some of the top up-and-coming talent across the sector.
Each winner was nominated or supported by their peers, who highlighted their outstanding achievements and successes, as well as their contribution to the industry. They were then selected by a panel of judges from a large number of entries, to be included on the coveted list.
The Compass winners included:
Mitchell Fraser, sales manager, Company of Cooks
Mitchell is transforming the Old Royal Naval College into one of London’s leading luxury event destinations. As sales manager for Company of Cooks, he has driven major growth across weddings and premium events, helping position the historic venue alongside brands including Harrods, Valentino and Alexander McQueen.
From expanding event capacities to developing specialist training for South Asian and Afro-Caribbean weddings, Fraser’s commercial drive and ambition have made a major impact. He also dedicates time to charity fundraising and co-founded a programme supporting underprivileged children in Scotland.
Marnie George, senior nutritionist, Chartwells Schools
Since joining in 2018, Marnie has progressed from site-level roles to leading national programmes and content development, all while supporting a team of 13 nutritionists. Her work spans schools, colleges and universities, where she has introduced programmes that balance education, engagement and commercial value. Judges also recognised her development of an automated tracking and reporting system, as well as her creation of a tailored induction for new nutrition team starters.
Megna Natali, finance manager, Restaurant Associates
Megna Natali joined Compass as a finance assistant and progressed rapidly through Eurest, 14forty and Restaurant Associates, building experience across multiple sectors and contracts. Now, as finance manager, she oversees complex client accounts, navigating international accounting and compliance challenges while supporting commercial performance. She mentors junior colleagues, supports DEI initiatives and outside work, she volunteers with organisations including food waste charity FoodCycle, plus has helped Birmingham’s adult social day care organisation the Alderman Bowen Centre, assisting with maintenance of the site.
Nikoletta Theofylaktidou, senior sous chef, Restaurant Associates
Since joining the business as a junior sous chef in 2023, Nikoletta has progressed rapidly to senior sous chef while completing a Level 4 NVQ in Hospitality Management and reaching the final of the Roux Scholarship twice. She now plays a leading role in menu development, kitchen operations and team management across her site’s fine dining offer. Her impact has been both creative and commercial. She champions mental health awareness as a Burnt Chef ambassador, supported Westminster Kingsway College (Capital City College) during the relaunch of its training restaurant facility, and is working towards becoming a Springboard ambassador to help inspire future hospitality talent.
CH&CO’s People Director, Liam Hatcher, alongside Caroline Baldwin, The Caterer’s Deputy Editor, presented the winners with their awards.
A former Acorn Award winner himself, Liam said to the winners: “What you’ve achieved already in your career is amazing. But this is just the beginning… I truly believe that my Acorn Award was a catalyst in my career progression.”
To find out more visit The Caterer’s website here - Meet the 2026 Acorn Award winners - News
