Clare Holford
London
Summary
Accomplished sustainability professional with strengths in strategic leadership and operational delivery, specialising in biodiversity and sustainable food systems. Known for building meaningful relationships with stakeholders and teams and for bringing energy and commitment to every project. Skilled in training and development, ISO14001 accreditation and auditing, with additional experience in event coordination and community engagement. Passionate about driving social impact through charity initiatives and embedding sustainability into everyday practice. Deeply committed to using expertise to support organisational growth, environmental stewardship, and long‑term positive change, fuelled by a genuine love for sustainability.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
2004
2004
years of post-secondary education
Work history
Sustainability Advisor
ISS UK
London
2025.05 - Current
- SMP Development — Worked on the organisation’s Sustainability Management Plan with a biodiversity, waste and climate change focus, contributing to the development of a Target Operating Model aligned with ESG frameworks and supporting measurable environmental improvements.
- Biodiversity Project Leadership — Led biodiversity initiatives by building strong, collaborative relationships with contractors and the client, driving positive ecological outcomes and long‑term engagement.
- Sustainability Reporting Support — Supported the sustainability analyst with reporting, providing SME commentary on CSUP and food waste to strengthen insight and accuracy.
- Food Waste Reduction Plan — Developed a food waste reduction plan and built strong, trusted relationships with food and site teams to drive implementation and long‑term engagement.
- Circular Economy Initiatives — waste‑reduction and resource‑recovery programmes, increasing recycling rates and reducing landfill dependency.
Head of Catering
ISS @ Mitsubishi Finance Group
London
2014.06 - 2025.05
- Operations Team Partner - Collaborated with the Key Account Manager to ensure the effective fulfillment of contractual obligations.
- Sustainability Management - Spearheaded sustainability management initiatives by leading the innovation, delivery and analysis of account sustainability improvements, aligning both client and company sustainability goals.
- Training & Development - Delivery of training and engagement materials Reporting & Analysis: Led the collation and presentation of detailed reports across service lines, using insights to drive operational change and improve facility services.
- ISO14001 Compliance - Assisted with ISO14001 reporting, providing guidance and support in achieving and maintaining accreditation, ensuring compliance with environmental management standards.
- Sustainability Leadership - First non direct employee to serve on the client's sustainability steering committee. Contributed to winning multiple sustainability awards at both the client-site and company levels.
- Health & Safety Compliance - Strict adherence to health and safety regulations, including hygiene standards and allergen management, ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all service users.
- Charity & Community Impact - Organised and coordinated multiple charity events, raising over £7,000 for various organisations while supporting vulnerable groups within the local community.
- Social Value - Developed and implemented community-focused initiatives promoting social inclusion and providing essential resources for underprivileged groups.
Catering Manager
Catermasters @ University of Law
London
2007.07 - 2014.06
- Operational Management - Led daily catering operations, including cafeteria services, special events, and faculty meetings, ensuring high-quality food and service standards.
- Budget Control - Managed the catering budget effectively, optimizing cost control while maintaining menu variety and nutritional balance.
- Team Supervision - Directed a team of 20 staff members, overseeing recruitment, training, and staff scheduling to ensure efficient service delivery.
- Vendor Management - Sourced and managed vendor relationships, negotiating contracts for food supplies and equipment rentals.
- Health & Safety Compliance - Ensured all food preparation and serving practices adhered to health and safety regulations, including hygiene and allergen controls.
- Customer Satisfaction - Enhanced student and faculty dining experiences through regular feedback collection and continuous service improvements.
- Sustainability Initiatives - Implemented sustainable practices, such as waste reduction and sourcing local produce, to support the college's environmental goals.
Education
Bachelor of Environmental Science -
Kingston University
LondonBachelor in Business Management -
University College Birmingham
BirminghamSkills
- Strategic Leadership & Operations Management
- Sustainability Reporting & Improvement
- Stakeholder Engagement & Collaboration
- Training & Development
- ISO14001 Accreditation & Auditing
- Event Coordination & Community Engagement
- Charity Fundraising & Social Impact Projects
References
Available on Request
Timeline
Sustainability Advisor
ISS UK
2025.05 - Current
Head of Catering
ISS @ Mitsubishi Finance Group
2014.06 - 2025.05
Catering Manager
Catermasters @ University of Law
2007.07 - 2014.06
Bachelor of Environmental Science -
Kingston University
Bachelor in Business Management -
University College Birmingham