Nominators were asked to describe in 50 words how their nomineee met the Award’s criteria and were encouraging equality in their organisations.

The Award’s Judging Panel shortlisted 7 candidates and the winner was announced at an Award Ceremony held on 3 March and hosted by Invesco in the offices in London Wall.

2015 Winner – Nick Thompson

Divisional Managing Director Technical Services, Sodexo UK&I

A respected member of the Executive team, champions the role of women and is continuously supporting to bridge the gender diversity gap by providing opportunities to women. This is reflected on the board and supports Sodexo’s Diversity and Inclusion Team. Nick also gives time to Mentor for Women in FM.

On receiving the Award, Nick commented:

 I am thrilled to receive this award. Sodexo has a strong and established diversity and inclusion approach and it is great to have bodies such as Women in the City and BIFM’s WIFM group which we can work with to help encourage women and other under-represented groups to develop and grow within this industry.

The other shortlisted candidates

David Emanuel

Managing Director, i-fm.net

Offering continuous support, David has done a tremendous amount to help recognise and reward the incredible work women do for the facilities management profession, as Managing Director of i-fm.net, a judge for the Women in the City Awards and Treasurer of Women in FM – the BIFM special interest group.

Simon Esner

Director, BaxterStorey

Simon proactively supports women in business, as a mentor/ sponsor of women within a male dominated industry. Simon understands the success a diverse leadership team can bring and has been an incredible support, facilitating opportunity and development which has allowed me to become a better role model for other women

Mark Freed

Director, E2W Limited

Mark Freed, a vocal feminist, founded E2W, an inclusive business that harnesses extraordinary talent pools and provides career continuity for mainly parents. He continues to relentlessly and tirelessly support, encourage and campaign for solutions that allow predominantly women to continue and progress their careers when they are ready.

David Howorth

Managing Director, Mitie Client Services

David is co-founder of Mitie’s Client Services business, a £25m turnover front of house provider. David’s passion for developing talent, and commitment to providing opportunities and an inclusive culture for all, is seen across the organisation and factored into Client Services’ inclusion in the Sunday Times top 100 companies list.

Mohammed Hussain

Systems Commissioning Manager, NHS England

Mohammed has inspired, mentored and advocated on equality issues throughout his career and at every level. Has supported and inspired myself and many other BME professionals to develop their career and acted as a mentor. Governor at deprived school, advocated equality issues in workplace. Role model for younger aspiring individuals.

Gary Zetter

Regional Director, Mitie

Gary is a driving force for equality, supporting our apprenticeship scheme and promoting young talent from all backgrounds. He’s been shortlisted for the Association of Black Engineers’ ‘leadership award’ and as ‘Race Champion’ for the Race for Opportunity Awards. He acts as an LGBT champion, working closely with Stonewall.