Angela Lewis, Strategic Relationship and Contract Governance Lead for ESS, has won the Armed Forces Advocate Award at this year’s Celebrating Forces Families Awards.
The event, held in London on 24th April, celebrates the contributions, resilience and achievements of Armed Forces families, with the Advocate category recognising individuals or groups who publicly and positively support the wider Defence community.
As Co-Chair of the Compass Group UK & Ireland Armed Forces Committee, Angela has dedicated over ten years to supporting Armed Forces personnel and their families. Her commitment has been instrumental in driving forward the company’s military inclusion agenda, both internally and externally.
She has led a variety of initiatives to support veterans, reservists, spouses and cadet volunteers within the Compass workforce and played a leading role in expanding military recruitment and developing supporting polices across the organisation.
Highlights include twice driving the successful achievement of Compass’ Gold Status under the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme and integration of the network into Compass’ wider people strategy by being recognised as the company’s sixth Belonging & Inclusion network.
Angela also actively supports charity activity in the Defence sector. She is a Corporate Ambassador for the Royal Navy & Royal Marines Charity (RNRMC), supporting events, hosting fundraising, awareness campaigns and spearheading ESS’s Platinum Bridge Partnership. Last year, she abseiled 100m down Portsmouth’s Spinnaker Tower for the charity!
Angela commented:
“While this is an individual award, it reflects a truly collective effort. Real impact is only possible through collaboration, with colleagues across Compass, our Armed Forces Network, industry partners, charities, recruitment organisations, the Defence Relationship Management team, our clients and the wider military community. I’m proud to work alongside so many people and organisations who share a commitment to supporting Armed Forces families in a meaningful and lasting way.”
Mark Webster, CEO of Compass One and Executive Sponsor of the Compass Group UK & Ireland Armed Forces Committee, commented:
“Angela is a truly deserving recipient of this award. She is a brilliant advocate for the Armed Forces community, both within and outside of our organisation. She leads with enthusiasm, gives her time generously and is genuinely committed to driving positive outcomes for veterans, reservists, spouses and cadet volunteers, as well as charities and other Defence stakeholders.”
