F&B OUTLETS AMBASSADOR OF THE YEAR:
SEAN ANDERSON Server/bartender, The Strathcona Hotel, Toronto
Sean Anderson has spent his 12 years with The Strathcona Pub building personal relationships with regular patrons and delivering thoughtful service. Anderson’s particular brand of service is focused on creating personalized experiences, from customizing menu items to anticipating guest needs and offering attraction suggestions for tourists.
Anderson is credited with playing a key role in the growth in the growth of the pub’s regular/return customers and was recognized by the Strathcona Hotel team for his contribution in 2015 with a “Most Spirited” award.
BELL PERSON AMBASSADOR OF THE YEAR:
TERRY KATSORIS Bell/Door/Valet, The Hazelton Hotel, Toronto
As part of the opening team, Terry Katsoris has been an integral part of The Hazelton Hotel team for more than a decade. He excels at building a unique rapport with guests, residents and members of the community. Katsoris’ keen eye (and ear) and dedication to guest experience has also been instrumental in helping the hotel create memorable stays for its guests. Beyond this, his organizational skills and vast knowledge of hotel procedures ensure that new hires are well trained and arrivals and departures run smoothly — even on the busiest days.
ADMINISTRATION AMBASSADOR OF THE YEAR:
SARAH RAU Sales & Catering coordinator, Thompson Toronto
In her time with Thompson Toronto, Sarah Rau has been a champion of the hotel’s core service values. Her natural leadership skills and particular brand of service from the heart have allowed her to earn the trust and loyalty of internal and external customers alike, including key corporate accounts. She is also dedicated to helping her team members grow and develop. “Each of our front-desk agents have been taught something by Sarah because she is always willing to develop and give you the tools to succeed,” says Melida Him-Baxter, Front Office manager, Thompson Toronto.
GUEST SERVICES AMBASSADOR OF THE YEAR:
ROBERT LACIAK Front Desk agent/Host, Hyatt Regency Toronto
In his eight years at the Hyatt Regency Toronto, Robert Laciak has established himself as an integral part of the hotel’s front-office team. Laciak is known for his authentic and intuitive brand of service, as well as his penchant for taking ownership of every service opportunity. He is also frequently the subject of customer praise in guest-experience surveys and was awarded named hotel’s Employee of the Month in November 2017 in recognition of inspiring and infectious approach to hospitality and guest service.
LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD:
VERONIA FRANCIS Second cook, Holiday Inn Toronto Yorkdale
In the more than 30 years Veronia Francis has spent in the kitchen at Holiday Inn Toronto Yorkdale, she has made an impression on numerous colleagues and guests. Dubbed the honourary kitchen matriarch, Francis makes a lasting impression with her genuine and caring nature, reliability and unwavering commitment to her team. During her tenure, she has continued to educate herself in order to adapt along with the ever-changing industry. Her dedication has been honoured by the hotel team on several occasions through awards such as All Star Recognition and the General Manager’s Award.
ACCOUNTING AMBASSADOR OF THE YEAR:
BRENDA SEQUEIRA Accounts Payables & Labour-Management Systems specialist, Hilton Toronto Airport Hotel & Suites
Among her team members, Brenda Sequeira is well known for her sharp eye and ability to safe the hotel money by catching invoicing errors. She is also lauded for her ability to manage upwards — providing the executive team and department heads with guidance to ensure operational efficiency. “Brenda is always available to answer any questions and is a valuable resource,” says Witek Allina, the hotel’s director of Finance.
