Tyrell, Patterson, Clarke clinch top spots at RIU Palace staff awards
Published:Thursday | February 29, 2024 | 10:19 AMJanet Silvera/Senior Gleaner Writer
WESTERN BUREAU:
GROUNDSMAN Dalton Tyrell, housekeeper Sedella Patterson and maintenance manager Delroy Clarke stood in the spotlight as they clinched the top prizes in the RIU Palace annual staff awards, earning bragging rights and a plethora of prizes.
Tyrell was bestowed with the esteemed title of Employee of the Year, Patterson earned the accolade of Supervisor of the Year, and Clarke was honoured as Manager of the Year. The award ceremony, held at the resort in Montego Bay, St James, last week, saw more than 50 team members receiving recognition for their exceptional contributions.
Adding to the celebration, RIU’s regional director of operations, Frank Sondern, received special recognition for his dedicated service of more than 20 years in Jamaica.
Notably, the majority of the individuals selected for recognition have demonstrated their commitment to the chain for over a decade.
“It’s a great feeling, and I’ve worked hard for this. Dedication and perseverance make me feel deserving,” expressed Tyrell to The Gleaner on Sunday morning.
“I’m always punctual and ready to step in when needed,” added the groundsman, who has dedicated 10 years and seven months to RIU. He proudly mentioned receiving various accolades over the past decade.
Tyrell, who attended Knockalva Agricultural Polytechnic College, finds pride in trimming flowers and mowing lawns.
“I brought my training to RIU, and I believe my work has left a lasting impression on the property. Tourists often mention me in their feedback,” said the 32-year-old.
Alongside several prizes, Tyrell’s colleagues received recompenses like weekend stays at any RIU resort and cash rewards.
AN AMAZING JOURNEY
Patterson, now supervising the housekeeping department at the RIU Palace, joyfully recounted her journey from trainee to Supervisor of the Year.
“Starting in housekeeping in 2016, it’s been an amazing journey. I worked hard and was promoted to supervisor two years ago. Now, I am truly elated to be named Supervisor of the Year,” said Patterson.
She emphasised the importance of determination in achieving her goals.
“I simply put my mind to it and pursued what I love. As they say, when you do what you love, you never work a day in your life,” she explained.
Patterson also expressed her pleasure in teaching guests the Jamaican dialect, over the years.
Equally delighted, Clarke reflected on his journey from trainee to engineering department manager, crediting Sondern for his guidance.
“Starting as a trainee in the bar at RIU Montego Bay in September 14, 2015, I transitioned to maintenance. I saw potential for growth within the RIU family and continued to improve,” disclosed Clarke.
“Sondern has always been my mentor and role model. I’ve followed his advice, stayed focused, and kept advancing. And now, Manager of the Year,” said Clarke.
Meanwhile, Sondern, humble about his own accomplishment, praised the award-winning employees and others whose outstanding service upholds the reputation of the Spanish hotel chain.
“I’m proud of all the staff here, not just the long-serving awardees, but all the others as well. Their dedication and pride in their work make me proud. It’s gratifying to see how they represent RIU,” said the German native.
Reflecting on his two-decade tenure, he highlighted the memorable moments shared with staff, including staff parties and success stories within the hotel.