Heritage Portfolio celebrates double win at the Scottish Excellence Awards
Heritage Portfolio, the specialist events and catering company within Sodexo Live!, secured two major wins at the prestigious Scottish Excellence Awards.
Paul Hood, Executive Head Chef for Scotland, was awarded Banqueting and Events Chef of the Year, while Stephen Frost, Divisional Executive Chef, was honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award.
Widely regarded as Scotland’s most prestigious hospitality competition, the Scottish Excellence Awards recognise outstanding achievements across the hospitality, foodservice, and tourism sectors. The black-tie ceremony, held at the Hilton Glasgow on 27 March, brought together the best in the sectors and was judged by a panel of independent experts from across the industry.
Stephen Frost was recognised with the Lifetime Achievement Award for his extraordinary 52-year career in hospitality, spanning esteemed kitchens across the UK. His leadership has been instrumental in overseeing catering at prestigious heritage venues such as Dundas, Glamis, and Blair Castles, as well as major sporting and cultural events, including two Rugby World Cups, 13 Open Golf Championships, and the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.
A champion of Scottish produce and sustainability, Stephen has also played a key role in mentoring the next generation of chefs, inspiring talent through initiatives like FutureChef. His dedication to the industry, combined with his impact on colleagues and protégés, cements his legacy as an important figure in Scottish catering.
The Banqueting and Events Chef of the Year award reflects Paul’s exceptional leadership, innovation, and commitment to culinary excellence. As Executive Head Chef for Scotland at Heritage Portfolio, Paul has played a pivotal role in shaping Heritage Portfolio’s reputation for bespoke catering, delivering outstanding dining experiences at iconic venues such as the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, Signet Library and the Scottish National Portrait Gallery, as well as major events including the Royal Garden Party and Royal Ascot.
His passion for fresh, locally sourced ingredients and sustainability is evident in his seasonal menus and immersive dining concepts. Over the past year, Paul has been instrumental in securing key venue contracts and driving revenue growth. A dedicated mentor, he actively supports young chefs through initiatives like Springboard FutureChef and is spearheading plans for an internal cook school to develop future talent.
These awards are a testament to the talent, dedication, and innovation that define Heritage Portfolio. Paul and Stephen’s contributions have been instrumental in shaping our reputation for excellence, and I couldn’t be prouder to see them recognised at the highest level. Their passion for delivering outstanding dining experiences, mentoring future talent, and championing sustainability is truly inspiring. This success reinforces our commitment to setting new standards in Scotland’s hospitality industry.
Caroline Bacigalupo, Head of Operations at Heritage Portfolio, also received a Highly Commended recognition in the Employee of the Year category, further showcasing the company's commitment to excellence.
Heritage Portfolio, a division of Sodexo Live! is a leading provider of private and corporate hospitality for cultural destinations. Producing outstanding catering and event services, it serves some of the most prestigious venues across Britain, delivering amazing experiences that go beyond the remarkable food it creates.