The OCS Operations Team at Covent Garden has been awarded the title of Operations Team of the Year at the 2025 Operational Excellence Awards. This national accolade highlights the team’s outstanding collaboration, innovation, and dedication to maintaining high standards across one of London’s most iconic destinations.
A team effort behind a landmark estate
OCS is the integrated FM services provider at Covent Garden, delivering services across more than 75 buildings in partnership with Shaftesbury Capital. Together, they cater to 45 million visitors annually while preserving the estate’s heritage and vibrancy. The work spans facilities management, technical services, horticulture, soft services, helpdesk, and health and safety. This integrated strategy guarantees the seamless operation of daily activities, major events, and the unique experiences that make Covent Garden world-renowned.
From managing over 55 major events without incident to delivering the beloved Christmas installations, the OCS team demonstrates resilience, creativity, and a seamless one-team ethos. Their dedication includes initiatives such as introducing chemical-free cleaning systems, reinvesting savings into sustainable planting, and enhancing visitor experience through customer journey mapping.
“Covent Garden’s multi-skilled team for their exemplary care of a heritage-rich space, blending environmental innovation with a strong ‘one team’ ethos. Their stakeholder-focused approach to event delivery, cleaning innovation, and operational excellence is matched by their pride, high morale, and a genuine commitment to collective success.”
Judges’ comments
“I’m absolutely thrilled that the team has been recognised as the Operational Excellence Team of the Year. This award truly reflects the collective focus, dedication, and relentless commitment to continuous improvement that defines this group.
Their drive to refine every aspect of what they do, always seeking out positive changes to deliver the best possible service to this exceptional estate, is nothing short of inspiring. A huge well done to everyone involved. You’ve earned this recognition, and it’s fantastic to see your efforts celebrated.”
Bruce McDonnell
Managing Director Private Sector (UK), OCS
“We are incredibly proud to congratulate the OCS team on winning the Operational Excellence Award UK 2025. This recognition is a testament to their unwavering commitment to quality, professionalism, and teamwork. Their dedication, competence, and hard work consistently elevate the standard of service across our estate, and we are delighted to see their efforts acknowledged at a national level. Well done to the entire team, this award is richly deserved.”
Terry Kemp
Head of Operations, Shaftesbury Capital
