Outstanding employees are honoured by Elite Hotels

Elite Hotels, a privately-owned collection of three luxury hotels in prime locations across the southeast of England - including Ashdown Park Hotel & Country Club, near East Grinstead, The Grand Hotel, Eastbourne, and Tylney Hall Hotel & Gardens, in Hook, Hampshire – has just celebrated its outstanding employees of 2024. Three award ceremonies took place at each of the three hotels, providing a chance for employees to express their gratitude for hard-working individuals during 2024.

The Employee of the Year is selected based on the colleague who receives the most Going the Extra Mile (GEM) awards over the course of the year.  All staff have the opportunity to nominate for the monthly GEMS, which means the winners have been recognised by their peers as well as the leadership team and ongoing guest feedback. Often providing inspirational explanations for their choices, the chosen winners were then presented with an award in recognition of their stand-out achievements.

This year, Ashdown Park Hotel’s Employee of the Year was Bartek Szepelak, Banqueting Sous Chef. Bartek has been an integral part of the team at Ashdown Park for many years. Since starting as a kitchen porter, his work ethic has never changed. He constantly helps everyone when he can and shows his commitment to growing with the business. Every hotel deserves a team member like Bartek.

Commenting on his award, Bartek Szepelak said: “I’m so grateful to Ashdown Park for the opportunity I’ve been given to excel in my career. I’m extremely proud to receive the ‘Employee of the Year' award.”

The Grand Hotel in Eastbourne recognised Lillie Hough, as its Employee of the Year for her valuable contribution as a Food & Beverage Assistant. Lillie started with the hotel almost three years ago. Since then, she has grown and flourished in her role. She is a dedicated member of the team, always willing to assist and take on extra responsibilities. The team said “Lillie is a credit to the hotel and is a lovely bubbly person. She always goes above and beyond and thoroughly deserves this award.”

Lillie said of her commendation: “I’d like to thank The Grand Hotel for giving me the opportunity to advance my career. I’m looking forward to 2025 brings at the hotel as we celebrate 150th anniversary of the property.”