beam announces winners of the inaugural beam Awards at Gala Dinner

beam has announced the winners of its inaugural beam Awards, unveiled at the Gala Dinner on 30 January 2026 at The Belfry Hotel.

These awards were launched to recognise outstanding leadership, collaboration and positive change across the sector, celebrating individuals and organisations that exemplify beam’s core values of resilience, innovation, ethics and quality.

Five awards were presented on the night, with winners selected by an independent panel of industry judges following a strong response to the entries.

The 2026 beam Award winners

  • Agency Leader of the Year – Nick Scott, arrangeMY
  • General Manager of the Year – Sally Beck, The Royal Lancaster London
  • Collaboration of the Year – Blackberry Events and NAHT – Inspiring Leadership’s Annual Conference
  • Spirit of beam Award – Deborah Collins, The Belfry Hotel & Resort
  • The Chris Peacock Champion of Change Award – Andriana Kyriakaki, Novotel London West

Louisa Watson, Outgoing Chair of beam, said:

“The launch of the beam Awards marks an important milestone for our association and for the wider industry. The calibre of entries we received was exceptional, making the judging process both challenging and inspiring. These winners represent the very best of our sector, leaders and teams who are driving positive change, championing collaboration and setting new standards for excellence. I’m incredibly proud to see beam recognise and celebrate their achievements.”

Andrew Clarke, Commercial Director at The BTA and guest judge, added:

“Judging the inaugural beam Awards was a real privilege. The quality and thoughtfulness of the submissions demonstrated just how much purpose exists across this industry. What stood out most was the genuine impact these individuals and organisations are having, not only within their own businesses, but across the wider sector.”

Katie Niland, Commercial Director of The Belfry Hotel & Resort, commented:

“We were honoured to host the inaugural beam Awards and to welcome the industry to The Belfry for such a special evening. Celebrating the sector’s success in our newly opened Masters Suite made the occasion even more memorable, and it was a privilege to support an event that brought the business events community together.”

Following the success of the inaugural awards, beam has confirmed that the beam Awards will return in 2027.