At Portico, our people are our greatest strength, and the 2026 Long Service Awards were an opportunity to celebrate the dedication, loyalty, and relationships that define who we are.

This year, we proudly recognised 24 colleagues, representing a remarkable 180+ years of service. Among them were 16 colleagues celebrating over five years, six marking ten years, and also two very special milestones – 15 and 20 years of service.

Operations Manager Natasha Draper West marked a remarkable 15 years with Portico. With extensive experience across corporate and hospitality environments, she is passionate about coaching her teams and using creativity and collaboration to develop ideas and deliver consistently high levels of service.

Hannah Barrett, Director of Operations says: “Marking 15 years of your service is more than an anniversary, it’s a celebration of the steady, compassionate, and quietly powerful influence you’ve had on all of us. You are consistently calm, collected, and resilient, no matter what comes your way. You nurture people. You guide, coach, support, but most importantly you truly listen. Your care is genuine, and it shows in the way people grow under your leadership and in the trust they place in you. The impact you’ve had on individuals, on teams, and on the culture around you runs deeper than you may ever fully see. You embody what the heart of Portico really stands for. Your presence makes us better, the part you play makes us stronger, and your dedication over these 15 years has helped shape Portico in ways that words can only begin to express.”

Director of Operations Hanna Barrett celebrated an incredible 20 years with Portico. Since joining the business in 2006, Hannah has built her career through continuous learning,  completing leadership and management apprenticeships, gaining hands-on operational experience, and progressing into her current role in 2017.

Reflecting on her journey, Hanna shares: “Stepping into the Operations Director role in 2017 remains one of the defining moments of my career. The autonomy to make meaningful decisions, shape operational direction, and influence outcomes has not only strengthened my confidence but also deepened my commitment to excellence. Over the years, I’ve gained extensive experience and insight, and I’m proud to have played a vital role in Portico’s growth and evolution.

My proudest moment at Portico has been creating and nurturing our Learning and Development Academy over the past decade. What began as a vision has evolved year after year, with each new workshop, subject area, and qualification strengthening its impact. Attracting talented individuals who continue to elevate the Academy has been especially rewarding, as their expertise keeps it dynamic and forward-thinking.”

Portico’s Managing Director Matt Bowers says: “This is my very first Portico event that also marks my first month anniversary with the business. When I met many of you during site visits, I felt incredibly welcomed and impressed with the culture. Walking around and speaking to you, I kept asking one question: how long have you been here and I loved hearing your amazing stories around your Portico journeys.

Portico’s biggest strength is our people and the longevity of their careers with us with internal progression opportunities. This has been also reflected in conversations with our clients.

Tonight is about celebrating you, celebrating your commitment, and celebrating what we are all about – great people and Service with Heart. Thank you all for your dedication and commitment.”