Savoy Educational Trust names new trustee
Collectively, the board supports the trust in its mission to fund projects that advance and develop education and learning in the hospitality industry
The Savoy Educational Trust has announced the appointment of caterer CH&CO’s chief executive Bill Toner to the board of trustees.
He joins existing trustees Robert Davis, Howard Field, Dr Sally Messenger, David Taylor, Professor Peter Jones, and Stephen Lowy.
Collectively, the board supports the trust in its mission to fund projects that advance and develop education and learning in the hospitality industry.
Toner started working in the trade as a chef, before joining Gardner Merchant where he rose through the ranks to become the UK and Ireland managing director of its £600m B&I catering business. He then went on to join catering giant Aramark as CEO of its UK subsidiary, growing the company from £150m to £400m turnover in just five years.
In 2010, he also became a shareholder and CEO of Host Management, successfully supporting Robyn and Tim Jones’ growth plan through a series of mergers into what today stands as CH&CO, which has an annual turnover approaching £450m, employing around 10,000 people at almost 900 sites across the UK and Ireland.
The Savoy Educational Trust was originally established in 1961 by four directors of the Savoy Hotel Group. It is an independent, grant-giving charitable trust, whose main aim is to advance and develop education, training and qualifications within the hospitality industry.
Toner said: “I’ve been a passionate supporter of the Savoy Educational Trust for many years and it’s a privilege to deepen my involvement as a trustee. In my opinion, the hospitality sector is the best industry to work in and one that offers so much potential and opportunity.
“Thanks to the education and funding opportunities offered by the Trust, people can start at all levels and continue with their education and skills with a meaningful career in hospitality.”
Howard Field, chair of trustees, said: “I am delighted to welcome Bill Toner to the board. His vast experience, knowledge and passion for the industry will be of great value. He joins us at an exciting time, with the recent appointment of Angela Maher as chief executive, who is developing a new strategy for the trust.
“The other trustees and I look forward to working with Bill to support educational projects that make a meaningful difference in our sector.”
