In 2023, the education caterer and facilities management provider secured £16.6m in new business. Credit: Sodexo.

Sodexo UK & Ireland has named Tracey Smith as the new chief executive of its schools and universities division.

Tracey Smith replaces Philip Smith, who held the position since March 2022.

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In her new role, Smith will oversee a portfolio that includes more than 450 state and 60 independent schools, along with 105 university sites across the UK.

Smith’s promotion comes after a decade with the company, where she began as a business development director for universities.

In 2020, she advanced to the position of sales director for schools and universities. Her experience in the industry spans more than three decades.

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Smith said: “I am delighted to continue my career at Sodexo and thank outgoing CEO Phil Smith for all he has done to create such a strong and talented team.

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“Our commitment is to deliver healthy, nutritious, sustainable food services and ensure we make a positive impact on the communities we serve every day.”

Sodexo’s schools and universities business is a significant player in the UK’s education sector, providing food services to a vast number of educational institutions.

The company also offers facilities management and student accommodation management services at numerous university sites.

The company has demonstrated growth in the education sector, securing £16.6m in new contracts in 2023/24.

This includes independent schools such as Shrewsbury School and St Leonards School in St Andrews, further expanding Sodexo’s client base.

Sodexo UK and Ireland chief executive Sean Haley said: “Tracey has exceptional client relationships, market knowledge and a driving passion to deliver the best food and ‘home from home’ services that enhance the learning experience for the pupils and students we serve every day.

“Tracey is a natural choice for this role and I am delighted to welcome her to the regional leadership team.”

In August 2024, Sodexo teamed up with Topanga to advance sustainability initiatives across ten college campuses in the US.