The British Institute of Innkeeping (BII) has revealed the winners of the 2025 National Innovation in Training Awards (NITAs) at a ceremony in London.
Steve Alton addresses guests at the NITAs
The NITAs and People Conference celebrate the exceptional individuals and businesses in the pub sector who put people at the heart of hospitality.
“The NITAs recognise the incredible people and organisations who make our sector such an inspiring and rewarding place to work,” said BII chief executive, Steve Alton.
“Each of our winners has shown an exceptional commitment to nurturing their teams, supporting wellbeing, and driving innovation across their businesses. Their dedication and passion help ensure our pubs and hospitality venues continue to sit at the heart of every community.”
The winners
Best training programme: managed and managed partnerships
Fuller’s Lead Your Way
Best training programme: individual operator
Kim Rennie, The Barge Inn
Best training programme: apprenticeships
Shepherd Neame
Best training programme: sustainability award, company
Wells & Co
Best training programme: sustainability award, individual site
Michael Foxwell, The Old House at Home
Training professional of the year, company
Frazer Grant, Pub & Bar Academy
Professional trainer of the year, individual and small multiple
Katie Mannion, Nell’s Pizza
Best recruitment strategy
Admiral Taverns
Hospitality apprentice of the year, back of house
Daisy Walton, Barge Inn, Wadworth
Hospitality apprentice of the year, front of house
Sophie Maltby, The Tollemache Arms
Hospitality apprentice of the year, operations
Claire Illman, Shepherd Neame
Wellbeing award
Punch Pubs & Co
This year, after an incredible raft of apprentices in the Hospitality Apprentice of the Year categories, the BII also recognised three Workforce Apprentice Heroes, picked by the judging panel for their incredible attitude, determination and spirit, and presented by the BII’s new chair, Clive Price.
One of the evening’s most heartfelt moments was the presentation of the Franca Knowles Live Your Life Award, selected by a panel of previous winners and chaired by Keith Knowles OBE. This award celebrates individuals in the sector who embody Franca’s legacy of positivity, passion, and dedication to people development. The winner was James Nye, managing director of Anglian Country Inns.
