MCA commends CF work for NHS England South East Region and Alzheimer’s Society
Representatives of 22 professional services firms have won or been commended for prizes at the 2025 Management Consultancies Association’s annual awards ceremony – while a quarter of the night’s honours were handed to small and mid-sized firms. SME consulting firm CF was among them – picking up highly commended recognitions for its work with the NHS England South East Region, and the Alzheimer’s Society.
2025 has been a transformative year for CF, as the healthcare and transformations consulting firm has evolved from our pioneering roots in healthcare data science to become a leader in data, digital and AI applications across the health ecosystem. Having been at the forefront of applying data science to healthcare for years, the firm has been expanding rapidly into new and international markets, including Saudi Arabia where health systems are rapidly embracing data, digital, and AI innovations, demonstrates our goal to support health systems worldwide in their transformation journeys. However, it has also been performing strongly on home soil.
The annual MCA Awards recognise excellence and innovation across the UK consulting sector. According to a release from the firm, CF’s success “marks a significant milestone for the firm and underscores our position as a driving force in healthcare transformation.”
Hannah Farrar, CF founder and CEO, remarked, "These awards reflect the dedication of our entire team and the trust our clients place in us to tackle healthcare’s most pressing challenges. From shaping dementia policy to transforming regional health systems, CF’s work demonstrates that strategic consulting, grounded in data science and clinical insight, can deliver meaningful change for patients and communities."
Best Use of Thought Leadership
CF’s collaboration with the Alzheimer’s Society on dementia care and early diagnosis demonstrated how strategic research and insights can shape policy and practice. The work highlighted the growing impact of dementia in the UK and made a compelling case for the importance of early diagnosis in improving patient outcomes and reducing long-term care costs.
Ben Richardson, CF managing partner, said of the commendation, “Being recognised for our work in both Thought Leadership and Social Value showcases CF’s commitment to not just advising on change, but actively creating it. Our work with the Alzheimer’s Society and NHS Confederation proves that rigorous research combined with genuine social purpose can drive policy impact and tangible community benefits."
Change and Transformation in the Public Sector
CF’s partnership with NHS England South East Region showcased the firm’s ability to deliver complex health systems transformation. The project demonstrated innovative approaches to improving regional healthcare delivery, enhancing patient pathways, and building sustainable capacity across integrated care systems. The firm was also nominated in two further categories: Social Value for prevention work with the NHS Confederation, and the Rising Star category where Dr Neel Desai was recognised for his exceptional contributions to the consulting sector.
Jo Andrews, CF chief medical officer, added, "Our NHS England South East Region partnership exemplifies what’s possible when clinical expertise meets innovative transformation approaches. This award recognises the hard work of building sustainable, patient-centred care systems that will serve communities for years to come."
