Celebrating the people behind ITVET

On Friday 11th September, the ITVET team came together at The Charis Centre in Bishop’s Stortford for our 2026 Teammate Awards. The annual event celebrates the incredible people behind ITVET’s success, recognising the talent, dedication and teamwork that make it all possible.

Congratulations to everyone who was nominated, and a special well done to this year’s winners. Every nomination reflects the contribution our teammates make throughout the year, and we’re proud to celebrate each and every one.

Let’s take a look at this year’s winners…

The 2026 winners

Personal Achiever Award

Suzie Stewart, Procurement & Facilities Manager

“Took on significant additional responsibility for Facilities while continuing to oversee Procurement and Provisioning.”

“Recognised for creating clearer processes and guides, building a more self-sufficient team and driving visible office improvements.”

“Suzie is the kind of manager everyone hopes to have. She is our biggest cheerleader.”

Above & Beyond Award

Andrew Byrne, Service Desk Technician

“Consistently volunteers for difficult and short-notice site visits, including supporting locations across the country.”

“Works across Service Desk, Projects and Engineering, receiving strong feedback for his technical ability and customer care.”

“Andrew is ITVET’s ‘Angel of the North’.”

Team Player Award

James Drake, Service Desk Engineer

“Always willing to lend a hand at short notice and works positively with people across the Service Desk.”

“His curiosity and desire to understand new or unusual requests make him a valuable source of support.”

“Everyone within SD loves him, so I can think of no better person to put forward.”

Best Newcomer Award

Lauren Vine, Commercial & Compliance Analyst

“Made an immediate impact across Compliance and Finance, quickly taking ownership of key activities and supporting other teams.”

“Praised for her commercial awareness, proactive approach, positive attitude and ability to identify better ways of working.”

“She has hit the ground running and has an amazing attitude and work ethic.”

Outstanding Customer Service Award

Sophie Drage, Service Desk Agent

“Has made a significant impact since moving into the Service Desk Agent role while continuing to support Retail Report.”

“Praised for being professional, calm, personable and reassuring with customers on the phone.”

“She has been a rock within the Agents Team.”

Innovation Champion Award

Harry Gilbert, Marketing Coordinator

“He has brought fresh ideas and a strong can-do attitude to the business.”

“Recognised for elevating and refreshing our content and how we tell ITVET’s story, helping to attract new business.”

“Feels like he’s been here for years.”

Unsung Hero Award

Charlie Kettridge, Project Lead

“Plays a vital behind-the-scenes role in keeping projects organised, overcoming

problems and supporting colleagues.”

“Recognised for her calm, proactive approach, extensive knowledge and willingness to help across Projects and Procurement.”

“The Projects team simply wouldn’t be the same without her.”

Manager of the Year Award

Ben Daniels, Head of Project Engineering

“Consistently advocates for his team and helps shape policies, processes and

decisions so teammates are represented.”

“Provides clear answers, technical guidance and support while motivating people to achieve their goals.”

“He’s just brilliant, he’s my lifesaver.”

Team of the Year Award

Service Desk

“Recognised for adapting to significant change and taking on additional responsibilities, including Infrastructure support.”

“Praised for their teamwork, resilience, customer focus and willingness to support colleagues across ITVET.”

“They are the heartbeat of ITVET.”

Teammate of the Year Award

Dan Colston, Escalations Engineer

“Has progressed through Service Desk engineering roles and is recognised as a trusted point of contact for complex and sensitive requests.”

“Supports Service, Projects and CRM, sharing his expertise and explaining technical issues clearly so others can develop their knowledge.”

“If we have an issue at ITVET, he is there. Top, top guy.”

Wrapping up

Our Teammate Awards are a chance to pause, celebrate and recognise the individuals who make a difference across ITVET every day. It’s a reminder that our success is built on our people, and we’re privileged to have such a talented and committed team.

A huge congratulations once again to all our nominees and winners and thank you to everyone who helped make the evening such a memorable one. Here’s to another year of achieving great things together.

Want to be part of something amazing?

We’re always on the lookout for passionate and talented people to join our growing team. If you’re looking for a company where your work matters and your growth is supported, check out our current opportunities.