Meet our 2025 winners…

Group Head of Marketing
Dawn Meats

Michelle has been with Dawn Meats Group since 1998, having climbed the ranks from sales graduate to group head of marketing in 2017. Michelle’s passion for the meat industry is clear through her involvement in advisory groups for AHDB, QMS and the Global Meat Alliance, as well as becoming a Liveryman of the Worshipful Company of Butchers. Michelle is regarded as a fantastic role model for aspiring women leaders in the sector.

Lead Baker/Counter Assistant
W. Reid Butchers

Alison has shown great resilience in her role and has mastered her craft perfectly; she has trained a new employee excellently and has proven countless times how reliable she is and that she is a key member of the W. Reid team. She is known for making beautiful pies and takes great pride in producing hundreds each week to an extremely high standard. Her proposer says: “We would be lost without Alison and are very grateful she works with us.”

Trading Manager – Meat, Poultry, Fish & Eggs
Waitrose & Partners

Kate spends a huge amount of time visiting suppliers across the country, forging relationships and building her understanding of what it takes to be an integral part of the meat supply chain into a multiple retailer. Encouraging development and growth within the company is important to Kate, and she is always the first to offer help and support for those around her. Kate has also introduced the Better Chicken Commitment across fresh chicken at Waitrose, and by the end of August, all Waitrose own brand chicken will meet BCC’s higher welfare standards.

Business Development Manager
Pilgrim’s Europe

Beatriz has achieved first-ever access and sales into new international markets for the UK poultry industry covering Japan, Mongolia and Vietnam. Working with Defra, DAERA, DIT, Invest NI, BPC and foreign authorities to lift trade barriers, Beatriz has demonstrated leadership in developing global market access, driving collaboration across government and industry. She is now focused on unlocking future markets and converting this access into further commercial success.

Sales Director
Sykes House Farm

Rachael is a manager who has a deep knowledge and passion for the meat industry and works with customers who have demanding requirements. The business supplies high-end quality meats that have proven provenance and sustainability. Her attention to detail and understanding of the market helps her customers have confidence and trust in developing a true partnership that delivers results time after time.

Group Head of Marketing
Dawn Meats

Michelle has been with Dawn Meats Group since 1998, having climbed the ranks from sales graduate to group head of marketing in 2017. Michelle’s passion for the meat industry is clear through her involvement in advisory groups for AHDB, QMS and the Global Meat Alliance, as well as becoming a Liveryman of the Worshipful Company of Butchers. Michelle is regarded as a fantastic role model for aspiring women leaders in the sector.

Butchery/Farm Manager
Marshall’s Farm Shop

From humble beginnings Shona has learned the trade of butchery from scratch. She has immersed herself in the red meat sector, often travelling thousands of miles to learn from masters of the trade. The butchery counter at the farm shop is described as an amazing display of home-produced protein. Shona also takes on overall management of the family farm; combined with the butchery it is a formidable task. A talented and enthusiastic candidate.

Technical Policy Manager
British Meat Processors Association (BMPA)

Nan has worked tirelessly over the last year to help members understand the technical issues around trade and employment. She has also been extremely proactive in engaging with Government agencies and civil servants to help them understand the issues and the challenges the meat industry faces due to policy changes, and how their actions and interpretations would help the industry and the Government. She is highly valued and respected by the membership.

Senior Sustainability and Agricultural Manager
Danish Crown UK

Katie is currently working on initiatives to improve environmental impact across the supply chain to embed sustainable practices that will benefit both farmers and retailers. What truly sets Katie apart is her character. Katie is a positive, kind and collaborative force in Danish Crown, willing to share knowledge and support. Katie is also a highly effective mentor. She has been actively promoting women in meat, and her warm personality makes everyone feel welcome and inspired. Katie embodies driving innovation, championing sustainability and inspiring others.

Site Director (Newbury)
Dalziel Ltd

Claire has consistently demonstrated a forward-thinking approach that blends operational excellence with a strong commitment to sustainability, customer relationships and quality assurance. Her ability to navigate the challenges of the supply chain while delivering consistent results has earned her the respect of colleagues, clients and industry peers alike. She demonstrates integrity, professionalism and a collaborative spirit. Her impact goes far beyond her day-to-day role, and her work continues to inspire those around her.

Commercial Manager
Kings Fine Cooked Meats

A powerhouse of technique, Adele has had a vital role in Kings’ success over the last 15 years. With her reputation for securing deals with major clients, overseeing the company’s commercial department and being a spokesperson for Kings at events and exhibitions, her dedication to the industry and her business is outstanding. Her proposer adds: “Adele is a shining example of an incredible businesswoman within a male-dominated industry.”

Apprenticeship & Early Careers Manager
ABP UK

Kate is a true champion of early careers. Her passion, tenacity and positivity are delivered with professionalism, encouraging colleague development while supporting others in taking their first steps into the industry. Kate’s role in ABP supports graduates and apprentices, ensuring opportunity for all. She is described as a superb role model and a valued asset in showcasing the meat industry to the next generation.

Meat Purchasing Lead
Aubrey Allen Ltd

Aubrey Allen says that Rachel is transforming the meat industry with passion, integrity and a deep agricultural insight. Raised on a farm, and a former young farmers’ leader, she now drives innovation at Aubrey Allen, launching the Heritage Breed scheme and a company-wide beef education programme. Championing rare native breeds and sustainable practices, Rachel bridges tradition with progress. Tireless and visionary, she inspires change at every level – from pasture to plate – and is already leading the future.