Members of the Finance & Administration Group
Following time spent in industrial catering, Hilary's career spanned 38 years in school catering. Firstly, in Essex rising to Deputy County Catering Manager (760 schools), followed by Head of Services for Cambridgeshire County Council (350 schools). She successfully completed two rounds of compulsory competitive tendering (CCT) followed by best value legislation and established one of the first central cook-freeze factory units, ensuring quality meals for small rural schools. Her responsibilities also covered contracts for police, civic, and cleaning services for Cambridgeshire.
Hilary founded LACA In 1988-89 and served as its first Chair. Stepping down from that she has continued as Honorary Treasurer, Finance Director and Chair of Finance & Administration.
Hilary was awarded the first Blue Ribband for Cost Sector Catering in 1995 and the Public Sector Lifetime Achievement Award in 2017. Both awarded in recognition of her years of service to school catering, establishing LACA and contributing to its continued development.
Hilary has brought her experience to the Board of Directors since inception.
Neil has dedicated over 40 years to the education catering sector, beginning his career as a kitchen manager in a primary school in 1981. He advanced to the role of contract manager for Avon County, overseeing catering services for 475 schools. Following the local government reorganisation in 1995, Neil moved to Bristol City Council, where he became the head of service for catering and facilities.
In 2005, Neil joined BAM Facilities Management (formerly HBG) to lead the mobilisation of a new build project comprising four secondary schools and a leisure centre. He eventually rose to the position of Director for the South of England, a role he has held for eight years.
Neil's passion for school meals has been unwavering. He has been an active member of LACA since the mid-1990s and currently serves as the business director and chair of the events group. Additionally, Neil is the regional chair for the Institute of Hospitality (IOH) South West branch, where he strives to elevate the profile of public sector catering
Stephen has dedicated 34 years to the school catering industry, beginning his career with Durham County Council. In 1994, he transitioned to Chartwells, where he held various roles before opting for a part-time position managing key accounts.
A long-standing and active member of LACA since 1993 participating in many local and regional events he joined the LACA Board as regional representative for the North East and Scotland in April 2014. He served as National Chair for 2 years from 2019-21 where he counts the LACA Allergens Risk Assessment Process as a highlight of his tenure as chair. Currently, he holds the positions of board director and regional chair for the North East and Scotland, where he supports member services, finance and admin working groups within the LACA Board.
Stephen resides in County Durham and is the chair of the governing board for his local primary federation, he has a unique overview into the impact food can have on schools and local communities and is fully aware of real challenges facing schools at this time.
