South East Region

Philippa has worked in education catering for nearly 20 years, starting in Tower Hamlets and later supporting Newham Catering and Cleaning Services' transition into Juniper Ventures. As Chief Operating Officer, she is passionate about her work, knowing the difference it makes to children having a hot, healthy and nutritious meal every day at school, especially in Newham where child poverty is well above the London average.  

She is committed to ensuring that as many children as possible benefit from free school meals. Philippa supports LACA in lobbying the government to protect and increase the UIFSM funding.    

Michael began his illustrious career in education catering in 1989 in Tower Hamlets, eventually becoming Head of Contract Services. In 2016, he founded the Juniper Group in Newham, which employs 750 staff and provides catering, cleaning, and health and safety services to schools and businesses across East London, providing social value. Juniper has received national recognition for management achievements and innovation.  Michael has earned accolades including a Catey award and Freeman of The City of London.  

A LACA supporter for over 30 years, Michael served as National Chair in 2018-19, lobbying MPs on junk food advertising near schools and UIFSM funding. He will become national chair again in September 2025 and champions the public sector on the Southeast regional committee for the Institute of Hospitality. 

A great advocate for universal free school meals for all pupils of all ages, he is determined to continue to do all he can to see this achieved before retirement beckons with a large gin and tonic with his wife on the beach in Spain.