News
Manchester Central’s Unsung Hero recognised at AEO Excellence Awards
Published at 16:44 on 1st of July 2011
One of Manchester Central’s longest-standing employees has been recognised as the industry’s ‘Unsung Hero’ at the AEO Excellence Awards 2011. Dave Freeman is the venue’s Goods Receiver, and has worked at Manchester Central since its opening 25 years ago.
He was awarded ‘Unsung Hero’ in light of his hard work and dedication to Manchester Central. Originally working in security, Dave, pictured above, has consistently been one of the team’s hardest workers and most reliable members. Now, 25 years after the venue opened, he works as the venue’s Goods Receiver. Based in the loading bay, Dave takes charge of receiving and logging all deliveries to the venue, safely storing them and ensuring they are collected and moved to the correct place in the building.
He is renowned in the building as someone who staff can rely on and who always has a smile and friendly word to offer. Dave also holds the venue’s record when it comes to sick days, working an impressive 24 years without a single day off ill.
Lesley Tomlinson said: “Dave has been a feature of Manchester Central for 25 years and, in that time, he has been a reliable and trusted colleague and loyal friend to many. I am delighted for him to have received this award and would like to take this opportunity to thank him publicly for all his hard work over the years.”
This is the most recent award win in a succession of trophies for Manchester Central, which has won a further five separate awards and one highly commended status in the last 12 months.
Manchester Central has established itself as one of the leading convention complexes in the country, regularly hosting large scale events including both the Labour Party and Conservative Party Annual Conferences, the Chartered Institute of Personnel Development (CIPD) annual conference, and the recently-announced move of the Chartered Institute of Housing annual conference and exhibition.
The venue also hosts regular public and trade exhibitions, corporate events, banquets and a range of special events including concerts and product launches.