A MEMBER of staff at Sunderland’s Bridges shopping centre has cleaned up after taking the honours at a prestigious award ceremony.
Jamie Smith, housekeeping manager at the centre, took first place in the Outstanding Customer Services category at the BICSc – British Institute of Cleaning Science – awards.
The awards, which are open to people working in the industry across the North East and Yorkshire, are organised annually by BICSc which is the largest independent, professional and educational body within the cleaning industry.
Jamie works for Interserve Facilities Management, which operates the cleaning contract at the Bridges, managing a team of 22 staff across the site.
The judges were looking for someone who “was an active problem solver who listens to clients’ needs, always responding in a compassionate and timely manner.”
At the same time they were required “to be consistent in their approach and remain calm during challenging situations.”
Jamie’s entry outlined her commitment to “driving performance and standards” across her team and “the sense of openness” created by daily get-togethers and rewarding high achieving members of staff.
The award was presented at a ceremony in Mexborough, with the win coming as a complete surprise to Jamie.
“I had no idea at all, I didn’t even know I’d been entered,” said Jamie, 38, from Sunderland.
“I was shocked to win but it is a massive achievement, not just for me but for everyone in the team.
“It’s fantastic to be recognised by the industry in this way.”
Andy Bradley, Centre Director at the Bridges, added his voice of support to the prize winning entry.
“Jamie’s commitment to the Bridges goes above and beyond the role of cleaning manager,” he said.
“She has embroiled herself in the fabric of the Bridges and our everyday business. She provides a level of added value in everything she does that is very uncommon and most welcome.”