Tim Hammond, who joined Elior as chief executive less than two years ago, is shortlisted for Contract Caterer. This award recognises a senior executive for making a big impact on the company and its people.

Since joining, Tim has set out a strategy to deliver great customer service and made several changes to the structure of the UK business. Elior is reaping the benefits of change as the business continues to grow and strengthen, despite a tough economic backdrop.

Jill Davies is shortlisted for the Innovation and Marketing Award. In less than 12 months, Jill has made a significant impact on the business and has devised a completely new dining concept, which boosted sales at one Elior site by £4,000 in just three months.

A further three Elior employees have also been shortlisted;

• Mark Crowe - Chef Award, who has captained the Elior Culinary Team for four years, for his outstanding dedication to producing food at the highest standards, winning various medals. He was recently awarded the honour of Elior Awards of Excellence  - Chef Award.

• Robin Comerford - Healthcare Award, whose dedication and expertise in the sector has helped Country Court Care transform the catering at its homes.

• Michele Moore (People Development Award) who created and rolled out eXperience - one of the most comprehensive customer service training programmes the industry has ever seen.

The winner in each category will be revealed at the glittering awards presentation dinner on Monday 26 November at the Royal Garden Hotel, Kensington.