We’re pleased to announce that our very own Viktorija Trajkova was awarded the Rising Star Award at the ACE Awards in London last night!

The Rising Star award recognises someone whose contribution in their role is worthy of industry-wide recognition. Over the past few years, Viktorija has gone from being hired as a part-time Warehouse employee to a First Line Manager. Along the way, she has been instrumental in supporting change here at Smiths News.

The Rising Star award recognises someone whose contribution in their role is worthy of industry-wide recognition. Over the past few years, Viktorija has gone from being hired as a part-time Warehouse employee to a First Line Manager. Along the way, she has been instrumental in supporting change here at Smiths News. Some of her successes include:

• Redesigning stock management processes and cross training her team, achieving an 11% improvement in production efficiency and team dynamics.
• Spearheaded a complete transformation of the pick and pack process for small item fulfilment, leading to further operational efficiencies.
• Viktorija earned her second promotion in under 20 months, stepping into the role of First Line Manager to lead this change.
• Completed the company’s prestigious Trusted Leadership Program, earning high praise from both her cohort and tutors.
• Led the trial of free period products at our Hemel depot to support our network group, Women In News.

Her colleagues fully supported us in entering Viktorija into the Rising Star award category, with Final Mile Delivery Director, Wayne Foster, stating that, “Viktorija’s journey is not just a personal success story – it is a blueprint for what is possible when passion, resilience, and strategic vision come together.”

John Power, Operations Delivery Director, stated that “Her ability to inspire those around her, while never losing sight of the details that make a process truly work, is what sets her apart.”

 In addition to Viktorija’s fantastic win, we were proud to be finalists in two other categories:
Sustainability Initiative of the Year – Smiths News Recycle
Industry Partner of the Year – Women in News Network

We could not be prouder that the team at the ACE Awards have recognised her contributions and awarded her the Rising Star Award. Viktorija is a true embodiment of our values, and we look forward to seeing where her path here at Smiths News takes her next.