Sodexo

Sodexo and Pilotlight have been collaborating for over five years. 

In 2024, they introduced the 'Explore Further with Pilotlight' programme, where a team from Sodexo addresses a specific business challenge faced by a charity. Over the course of ten weeks, 12 Pilotlighters apply their analytical skills and expertise to thoroughly examine the issue and propose effective solutions.

Sodexo first came to Pilotlight when its Justice (Custody) Senior Leadership Team wanted to explore ways to “get involved in giving something back to the community as a group and support its Social Value commitments,” according to Tony Simpson, Director of UK Custodial Operations at Sodexo Justice. After connecting with Pilotlight through Angela Halliday, Director of Social Impact, Tony and four Prison Directors were sponsored by the company to become Pilotlighters on Pilotlight 360. They quickly saw how they could help while also exploring areas of interest. 

“For me, working in the Womens Estate at HMP & YOI Bronzefield has sparked a real passion and interest in the social issues women face, and the charities that support them,” says Sodexo’s Ian Whiteside. “When I heard about Sodexo’s partnership with Pilotlight, I was very interested in being involved. Due to my interest in women’s social issues, I was matched with the charity MASH (Manchester Action on Street Health).”

Ian’s team helped MASH to develop a short- and long-term strategy, making them more resilient and confident for the future. That said, Tony is keen to stress that the programme is a win-win. "There are some amazingly talented people working selflessly in the charitable sector," he says, “who can teach us all about managing uncertainty, innovating and managing resources and demonstrating leadership in delivering social value.”

Angela Halliday, Director of Social Impact for Sodexo UK & Ireland said “We are delighted to be working in partnerships with Pilotlight. Sodexo is proud to put small business and communities at the heart of its social value agenda. This partnership allows our Sodexo leadership team to go beyond the expected! We will not only create a lasting, social impact for charities in the UK, but also, contribute to the development of our Sodexo Talent pool.”

Find out more about how your business can partner with Pilotlight here.