Following the publication of the full list in late November 2025, the Top 20 gathered at the House of Commons on 29 January 2026 for a roundtable discussion on key industry issues, including health, allergens, the food system, funding and procurement. This event brought together experienced leaders from across public sector catering to share ideas, inform debate, and contribute to the action points that will guide the Public Sector Catering Alliance in the year ahead.
Mike Haslin was recognised for his role as CEO of TUCO, leading on professional development and procurement strategy within the sector. Amanda Pettingill was acknowledged for her leadership of TUCO, having taken up the chair in October 2024 after many years on its board, as well as her influence to policy, procurement, succession planning and professional standards across public sector catering.
The full Most Influential list for 2026 reflected a broad spectrum of voices across schools, universities, hospitals, care homes, prisons, and related sectors:
- Mo Baines
- Denise Bean
- Professor Don Bundy
- Kath Dalmeny
- Nadim & Tanya Ednan-Laperouse
- Charlotte Fairall
- Mike Haslin
- Mick Hickman
- Sharon Hodgson MP
- John Holden
- Nicky Joiner
- Jayne Jones
- Professor Kevin Morgan
- Brad Pearce
- Amanda Pettingill
- Neel Radia
- Iain Robertson
- Alexia Robinson
- Phil Shelley
- Anna Taylor
