Big Charity Challenge team recognised with Mark in Action

In the recent Mark in Action ceremony, Head of External Communications Alistair Drummond, and Media and CEO Communications Manager Katy Farrington, were recognised for their work in leading the Big Charity Challenge 2023 at short notice.

During a very busy period for the Group communications team in the September of 2023, which had them focusing on a leadership conference, a 25 Year Club Event, and the 35 Years of Mark in Action ceremony, Alistair was asked to take on a special challenge.

After the success of the Big Charity Challenge 2022, Group Chief Executive Darren Leigh asked Alistair if he would run the campaign for 2023. Although he had only a matter of weeks to prepare, Alistair accepted the challenge and began working immediately to engage the entirety of Unipart Group in a week of focused fundraising.

A key aspect of the campaign for 2023 was the Leadership Roadshow. Alistair and Katy planned it to perfection, devising a route that would engage sites across the UK, and Alistair even drove the bus!

Once on the roadshow, the pair were met at the sites by incredible teams who, under the guidance of the Big Charity Challenge site leads, were hosting a variety of fundraising events, including darts competitions, bake sales, and fitness challenges.

Alistair and Katy’s journey inspired engagement on Spark, as colleagues shared pictures of their own fundraising activities. Overall, the Big Charity Challenge 2023 raised more than £36,000 for the benefit of more than 25 different charities chosen by sites.

Alistair said: “It's an honour to be recognised with a Mark in Action, but this is really due to the hard work of all the colleagues who collaborated so wholeheartedly to make Big Charity Challenge 2023 a success.

“From the site teams who volunteered their time, to the organisers of and participants in the leaders' roadshow, to functional teams who ensured donations were matched, everyone involved showed what we at Unipart can do when we all pull together. Thanks to all who supported the campaign.”

The full Mark in Action ceremony from January 2024 is available to watch with this video link.

To nominate a Unipart employee or team for a Mark in Action award click here.

The next Mark In Action Ceremony will be held on 26 March.