Young Leader of the Year Awards

The Young Manager's Forum (YMF), a platform for aspiring professionals to connect with their peers in the workplace industry, has announced this year's shortlisted finalists for the Young Leader of the Year category at the PFM awards.

In their search for true pioneers of tomorrow within facilities management (FM), the jury panel and YMF committee have selected Kristian Trend, general manager - universities student living at Sodexo, Luke Townsend, assistant commercial manager at ENGIE and Rezki Karar, account manager - defence and government services at Sodexo, as standouts among a number of exceptional nominees.

With an ever-growing pool of talented individuals helping to deliver services with a fresh perspective throughout the country, The Young Leader of the Year award shines a light on the brightest and most promising individuals set to change the face of industry in years to come.

The awards process provides an opportunity for nominees to share their personal journey and inspire other fresh-faced FMs to make an impact early in their careers. On being asked what becoming a finalist means to each of them, the shortlisted contenders have said:

"Being named as a finalist is such a privilege and an opportunity that is truly humbling. Having met previous finalists and knowing the calibre of young talent within our industry only furthers the honour." Luke Townsend, ENGIE.

"I am absolutely delighted to be nominated as a Young Leader of the Year finalist. This is an immensely proud moment and a sign, I hope, of more positive things to come!" Kristian Trend, Sodexo.

"It is truly an honour to be chosen as a finalist among an extremely high calibre of candidates. This recognition will allow me to influence more positive change in the FM industry, it also hopefully means more inspiration for those I now mentor." Rezki Karar, Sodexo.

Sponsored by Boden Resources, the shortlist event will take place 4th October at King's offices in London's West End, with each finalist giving a presentation about their journey into FM and how FM as an industry can create social value. The winner will be announced at the PFM awards on 7th November 2018.