The British Institute of Innkeeping (BII) National Innovation in Training Awards (NITAs) saw over 300 people from across the sector come together to share and recognise innovation and best practice in people development.
The National Innovation in Training Awards (NITAs) recognised the very best innovation in training, apprenticeships, and wellbeing programmes alongside outstanding individuals in people development. One of the highlights of the evening was the BII’s brand new category – Hospitality Apprentice of the Year with all finalists being real ambassadors for the future of the sector.
The evening culminated in the presentation of the Franca Knowles Live Your Life Award a very special recognition for an exceptional individual who leads by example and demonstrates that people are at the core of everything they do. This industry recognition award is in memory of the late Franca Knowles, who herself was a multiple winner at the NITAs, being a leader in people development and training. Franca took huge pleasure in seeing young team members grow and thrive. She placed immense value on investing in people, recognising the benefits for both the employer, employee and the wider industry. Keith Knowles OBE, Founder and CEO of Beds and Bars, proudly presented this year’s award to Anthony Pender for his outstanding work over many years supporting the wider industry.
The BII is the leading independent licensee support organisation for individuals working in hospitality, with 10,000 individual members running premises across the UK – predominantly tenanted, leased, managed and freehold pubs. The organisation provides expert helplines, online business support, and guidance on key industry issues, and savings on a range of supply deals for its members, keeping pubs thriving in the heart of every community.
