Customer Service Employee of the Year

2026

Vote for your Customer Service Employee of the Year

Customer Service Employee of the Year Nominees

Nobertro Berenguer Nominated by: Stephanie Humphries

A “well-loved” barista who runs the busy student café at Jersey College for Girls has been nominated for the Customer Service Employee of the Year award.

Nobertro Berenguer runs Hector’s Café with “boundless energy, positivity and kindness” which is “infectious” around the school, according to nominator Stephanie Humphries.

Mr Berenguer is known for always greeting students and staff with a warm smile, despite it always being busy in the noisy café.

Miss Humphries said that Mr Berenguer’s hard work, dedication and cappuccinos – which were praised as the best on the Island – deserve “full recognition”.

Catriona Dunleavy Nominated by: Amy Dingle

A shop worker who “always goes far beyond what is expected” has been nominated for the Customer Service Employee of the Year award.

Catríona Dunleavy has been nominated by Amy Dingle for her exceptional care and understanding work at Wait-rose in St Saviour.

Miss Dingle explained that Ms Dunleavy offers both practical and emotional support to customers.

She said the shop worker always helps Islanders find their desired product with a smile on her face and makes every interaction feel personal.

Miss Dingle added that Ms Dunleavy has a “lasting impact” on the people she serves, describing times when she was feeling low but the Waitrose employee “has somehow known exactly the right thing to say”.

David Quinn Nominated by: Michael Sampson

WAITROSE employee David Quinn has been nominated for the Customer Service Employee of the Year award for the second year in a row – after being “overlooked for too long”.

Michael Sampson said that Mr Quinn is “an outstanding credit to customer service”.

Mr Quinn works at Waitrose in St Saviour, where many of his customers “have become his friends” and often choose his checkout when doing their shopping.

Mr Sampson described Mr Quinn as a “true man of the people” who is a credit to the Waitrose brand.The worker is always helpful to anyone who asks him a question and is a “brilliant example of quality service”, he added.

David Hewitt Nominated by: Margaret Breen

David Hewitt, who works at the Gorey Village post office and Morrisons, has been nominated for the Customer Service Employee of the Year award for his readiness to help, no matter the query.

Nominator Margaret Breen, a frequent customer at the post office and Morrisons, said: “He’s always ready to go the extra mile to assist with filling in the various forms now required to send a parcel and nothing is ever too much trouble for him.”

He is a friendly face who chats to anyone who comes in, engaging with the community he serves on a human level, she added. “You might go into Gorey post office feeling down,” Mrs Breen said, “but you come away feeling brighter because you have spoken to David. He just goes the extra mile

“A village post office is the heart of the community where people come together for a quick chat over buying a few stamps or their daily paper and David is at the heart of the post office.”

Ken Browne Nominated by: Paul Battrick

A funeral director at De Gruchy’s Funeral Care described by one of his nominators as “one of Jersey’s unsung heroes” has been nominated in the Customer Service of the Year category.

Ken Browne has been nominated by Paul Battrick, a former funeral director, who said he had “always admired Ken’s exceptional standards and aspired to match his level of care”. Having left the profession, Mr Battrick said he recommends Mr Browne’s services to others who have all thanked him, “saying he went above and beyond their expectations”.

Mr Browne took on the funeral preparations for a close friend of Mr Battrick’s, who died aged 39. Mr Battrick said: “Despite the sensitive circumstances, he provided unwavering support, was available day and night, and ensured every detail was handled with dignity and compassion.”

Mr Browne was also nominated by Myles Le Basse Fitton for “delicately and professionally” arranging his mother’s funeral. Mr Battrick concluded: “His commitment to caring for families at their most difficult time makes him a truly deserving recipient of this award.”

Andrew Ruff Nominated by: Nicola Masters

A fitness instructor said to have transformed the lives of Islanders through his encouragement, kindness and outstanding care has been nominated for the Customer Service Employee of the Year award.

Andrew Ruff has been described by his nominator, Nicola Masters, as someone who ensures every person who walks through the gym doors feels welcome, valued and supported.

Ms Masters said that from greeting members with a smile to leading his popular fitness classes at Active gym, Mr Ruff creates an environment where everyone feels they belong, regardless of whether they are attending for the first time or have been members for years.

She explained that what made Mr Ruff exceptional was the time he took to understand each individual, adapting exercises to suit every ability and ensuring no one felt left behind.

She explained: “For many people, the gym is where they rebuild confidence, improve their wellbeing and find the courage to keep going. “Andrew is at the heart of those journeys, encouraging people, celebrating every achievement and reminding them that every step forward matters.”

The team at La Brise and Golden Sands Nominated by: Pat Bougeard

A team of hospitality workers are being recognised by Pat Bougeard for going the extra mile to provide “unforgettable service” for hotel guests, tourists and Islanders in St Brelade’s Bay.

Staff at La Brise restaurant and Golden Sands Hotel have been nominated for the Customer Service Employee of the Year award for their consistently welcoming approach, making guests feel comfortable, relaxed and well cared for.

Ms Bougeard particularly praised the team for being “deaf inclusive” and aware, while ensuring guests’ individual needs and disabilities were accommodated. She said they “go above and beyond to enable everyone to have a wonderful experience”.

Described as “incredibly generous, friendly, kind, compassionate and genuine”, the team are said to “radiate warmth, happiness and love” at their beachside restaurant and hotel. The nomination celebrates the team’s commitment to making every guest feel valued and ensuring everyone can enjoy their experience.

Mervyn Le Masurier, Vanessa Linden and Alan Ley from the Visit Jersey welcoming executive team Nominated by: Elliott Muddyman

Three members of Visit Jersey’s welcoming executive team have been praised for going the extra mile to ensure visitors leave the Island feeling “welcomed, informed and inspired”. Mervyn Le Masurier, Vanessa Linden and Alan Ley have been jointly nominated for the Customer Service Employee of the Year award.

Nominator Elliott Muddyman praised the trio for their “exceptional local knowledge”, which allows them to recommend everything from hidden coastal walks to snippets of Jersey’s history and encourage visitors to explore beyond the usual tourist spots.

“Every interaction of theirs is personal, meaningful and delivered with warmth,” he explained. “They consistently receive outstanding feedback for their friendliness, professionalism and willingness to go the extra mile, ensuring every person leaves feeling welcomed, informed and inspired.”

Mr Muddyman said the team helps to create unforgettable first impressions and lasting memories of Jersey for those visiting the Island. He praised the three executives for the enthusiasm with which they “advocate for our island”.

Conor McMurray Nominated by: Karen Hammond

The co-owner of Dunn-Ross Fisheries has been nominated for the Customer Service Employee of the Year award. Conor McMurray, who took over the long-established business this year alongside his wife, Kirsten, has been nominated for the award by a customer.

Mr McMurray’s nominator, Karen Hammond, said hat she had received “continuous good service” from Conor as a long-standing customer. She added: “I have nominated Conor McMurray/Dunn Ross Fisheries for their outstanding customer service. “Conor and his staff are always very helpful in providing advice on the different fish and shell food that they offer.”

She explained that Mr Mc-Murray was very knowledgeable about the products the business had on offer and said that staff members could always offer advice about how to cook and prepare different types of fish.

Ms Hammond added: “It is a pleasure shopping at Dunn Ross, and they always have an amazing counter display and a fabulous array of fish available with good suggestions on cooking and serving.”

Bonne Nuit Café staff Nominated by: Sandra Noel

Cafe staff members who consistently go above and beyond to make customers feel welcome have been nominated for the Customer Service Employee of the Year award.

Nominator Sandra Noel said that no matter the day, the time or who served her, she was always greeted with “a smile and fabulous service”.

Ms Noel said the team remained friendly and attentive, even when the staff were “rushed off their feet” on busy days, or when the weather was “blowing and raining”.

She added that staff members made an effort to get to know regular customers by name and remembered what they liked to eat and drink.

Describing Bonne Nuit Café as “a community of fabulous customer service”, she said the team’s friendliness, consistency and dedication made them deserving nominees of the Customer Service Employee of the Year award.

Michelle Logsdon Nominated by: Jacqui Le Flahec

The face behind a busy park kiosk has been nominated for the Customer Service Employee of the Year award for being “a friend to everyone”.

Michelle Logsdon, who runs Millennium Kiosk, has been described by her nominator Jacqui Le Flahec as “the most lovely person” who makes time for everyone and remembers all of her customers’ orders.

Ms Le Flahec praised Ms Logsdon for allowing customers to sit and “enjoy a tea and chat” all day, adding that she is “completely non-judgemental”. She added that she always takes ice out when children in the park are injured or bruised, and always remembers how people like their drinks order.

Ms Le Flahec said: “I have never seen her cross even when it’s a heatwave and her kiosk is unbearably hot. “She cares about what she does and just wants everyone to be happy.”

Julian Roffe Nominated by: Chantelle Mundy Dunne

A director at a local property and surveying firm has been nominated in the Customer Service of the Year category for his “professionalism, responsiveness and genuine commitment to outstanding service”.

Julian Roffe, who is described as having an “exceptional reputation” works at Sarre & Co, where he has brought value to its clients for many years, his nominator, Chantelle Mundy Dunne, said.

Mrs Mundy Dunne said that many clients had expressed how much they had valued Mr Roffe’s expertise and professionalism and added that, for one client, “Julian has made a consistently valuable contribution, becoming its go-to professional for property valuations and rental negotiations”.

Ms Mundy Dunne explained that Mr Roffe gave his clients “peace of mind”. She added: “Julian never seeks praise or recognition for what he does. He simply works hard, quietly and consistently, always putting his clients’ interests first. His expertise inspires confidence, but it is his reliability, personal approach and commitment over many years that truly distinguish him.”

Dave Cottrell Nominated by: Charlie Miles

The event manager at the Royal Jersey Show-ground has been nominated in the customer service category for the “exceptional support” he shows his customers and for always going “the extra mile” to ensure their success.

Dave Cottrell has worked at the showground for more than 20 years. In that time, his nominator Charlie Miles said Mr Cottrell had made the event planning process “effortless”.

Miss Miles is the events manager for Digital Jersey and has worked with Mr Cottrell for several years. She said his “ability to co-ordinate various contractors, respond quickly to questions and find practical solutions made a significant difference to both the planning process and the event itself”.

“Dave regularly goes beyond simply providing a venue,” Miss Miles said, adding that he makes himself available for site visits and draws on his experience to put clients in touch with trusted suppliers to help things run smoothly. “Working with him feels like a partnership, and his consistently excellent service gives us confidence that our events are in safe hands,” Miss Miles added.

Rami Hammoude Nominated by: Tracy Collins

A deputy manager of a hotel has been nominated for the Customer Service Employee of the Year award, having “consistently demonstrated exceptional customer service”.

Rami Hammoude joined La Haule Manor in April 2024 and according to his nominator, hotel general manager Tracy Collins, he has made a lasting impact on the business. “He does far more than simply look after guests,” Ms Collins explained. “He makes people feel genuinely welcome, valued and at home.

“Rami has a natural ability to create personal connections. He remembers guests, notices the smallest details and is always willing to go the extra mile to make their stay special. His warmth, professionalism and genuine care leaves a lasting impression.”

Mr Hammoude’s efforts have also been noticed by guests who have left glittering reviews of his work, Ms Collins said, showing his “commitment to customer service is not simply an opinion from colleagues or management, but it is something guests personally experience and remember”. She added: “Rami represents the very best of Jersey hospitality: genuine care, professionalism and service from the heart.”

SD Catering Team Nominated by: Sigita Laiviniece

SD Catering has been nominated for Customer Service of the Year for being “a local business that quietly makes a huge difference to our Island”. Nominator Sigita Laiviniece praised the team for doing far more than providing “exceptional” food.

“They support local businesses and charities, participate in fundraising and have provided food free of charge or at reduced costs to help make events affordable and accessible to everyone,” she said.

Ms Laiviniece said that SD Catering’s food and service is consistently of a “very high standard”, yet it is the team’s “attitude towards people that makes them special,” as they “genuinely care about every part of the business and its customers”.

She commended SD Catering for “giving all events the same energy and commitment,” whether large or small, glamorous or community-focused.

“They help bring people together and create memories, while supporting the organisations and causes that make Jersey such a strong community,” she added.

Ged Brennan Nominated by: Juliana Le Voguer

A postman who has turned a daily routine into a “lifeline of support” for his customers has been nominated for the Customer Service Employee of the Year award. Nominator Juliana Le Voguer said Ged Brennan consistently went above and beyond for her grandparents, turning his regular deliveries into a source of support and reassurance.

Ms Le Voguer said Mr Brennan routinely carried heavy parcels safely inside for them and, before leaving, would always ask if they needed anything else. What stood out most, she said, was Mr Brennan’s empathy and the genuine care he showed towards the people on his route.

“He doesn’t just see an address, he invests in people,” Ms Le Voguer said, explaining that Mr Brennan remembered personal details, including her grandparents’ GP appointments, and would thoughtfully follow up to ask how they had gone.

She said this level of care brought “immense comfort” to the family, knowing someone so attentive was checking on her grandparents each day. Describing him as “a truly wonderful man who serves his community with an open heart”, she said Mr Brennan’s dedication, generosity and compassion made him a deserving nominee for the Customer Service Employee of the Year award.

Rubina Gomez Nominated by: Marion Simpson

A shop worker has been nominated in the Customer Service of the Year category for going above and beyond and always greeting her customers with a smile. Rubina Gomez has worked at the Co-op in St Brelade for 24 years and in that time has become a familiar favourite of those who shop there.

Her nominator, Marion Simpson, said she was “always greeted with the warmest of smiles” when she entered the store and that Ms Gomez always showed a “great willingness to be helpful”. Never one to shy away from helping others, Ms Gomez also helped Mrs Simpson find her purse when she had lost it after she recognised a photo of Mrs Simpson in it.

Mrs Simpson added: “Whether Rubina has been working in the bakery or on the tills, she will always welcome you with a radiance and smile which seems to come from within.”

Laura Giquel Nominated by: Glynis Burnal and Susan Deans

A Morrisons staff member has been nominated for the Customer Service Employee of the Year award for always having a “friendly disposition” to all customers.

Susan Deans and Glynis Burnal said that they always received a cheerful greeting from Laura Giquel when they were shopping, making it a positive experience, which left people “looking forward” to their shopping trips.

They said: “‘Morning ma luv’ is the cheery greeting you get from her at 7am. She is very helpful to us oldies, packs our bags and checks we have not overlooked specials. If so, she jumps up and gets the missing item.”

Her nominators added that although Ms Giquel needed to have dialysis every week and “does not enjoy good health”, she was still a “pleasure to be served by, especially in the early mornings”.

They said that Ms Giquel greeted every customer with her “big smile and friendliness” each morning. “She is a credit to Morrisons,” they said.

Diogo Vieira Nominated by: Delphinie McCarthy

A hairdresser at Made Hair, described as “incredibly passionate, friendly and talented”, has been nominated for Customer Service of the Year.

Diogo Vieira has been praised by his nominator, Delphinie McCarthy, for being “consistently warm, welcoming and upbeat”, always ensuring customers leave the salon feeling happy and confident with their hair.

Mr Vieira “takes so much care and pride in his work” and is described as talented and considerate, despite working in what can be an extremely busy and demanding profession.

Ms McCarthy said he “never makes you feel rushed or like just another client”, highlighting the care and attention he gives to every customer. Mr Vieira has also been commended for his “incredibly supportive and encouraging approach” towards colleagues, creating a positive atmosphere within the salon.

His dedication to both customers and fellow staff members makes him a valued member of the Made Hair team, Ms McCarthy added.

Bambola Toy Shop Nominated by: Diana Racko

A toy shop team whose friendly and caring approach makes customers feel welcome has been nominated for the Customer Service Employee of the Year award. Nominator Diana Racko said the staff at Bambola Toy Shop were always “very helpful, attentive and caring” and ready to assist customers whenever needed.

Ms Racko said she regularly visited the shop with her daughters and that they were always made to feel “very welcome” by the friendly and helpful team.

She added that the shop’s wide variety of toys, including Lego and appropriate choices for children of different ages, was another reason she and her daughters enjoyed shopping there. “We couldn’t ask for better place,” she added. Ms Racko said staff were always “happy and smiley” and on hand to help, whether customers needed advice or simply an extra hand while shopping.

She described the atmosphere as “caring, supportive and kind” and said the team created a “happy environment” that made her and her daughters enjoy returning to the shop. Ms Racko said the staff’s kindness and willingness to help made Bambola a place where customers felt comfortable and supported.

Ben Benander and Peter Howarth Nominated by: Maria Bute

Two veterinary professionals whose compassion, expertise and commitment helped save a beloved family dog have been nominated for the Customer Service Employee of the Year award. Nominator Lola-Maria Butel said Ben Benander and Peter Howarth, of New Era Veterinary Surgery, had gone above and beyond while treating her dog Jessie after she was diagnosed with a high-grade mast cell cancer.

Ms Butel said Mr Howarth had carried out an operation when it was uncertain whether Jessie’s leg could be saved, but that thankfully the surgery was successful. She explained that Mr Benander had arrived in Jersey from Hawaii after studying a chemotherapy drug called Palladia.

He put Jessie on the treatment without knowing what the outcome would be, but remained available to support the family throughout. Ms Butel said Mr Benander was “always at the end of his phone” when they needed advice, even calling them on one occasion while he was away on a family holiday.

Thankfully, the treatment worked. Although Jessie went on to develop cancer three more times, Ms Butel said she had “very luckily pulled through and beaten it” each time, becoming something of a celebrity in Jersey, described as the “wonder dog” in the Jersey Evening Post and on the radio.

Suzanne Blake Nominated by: Kay Houiellebecq

A Waitrose employee has been nominated for the Customer Service Employee of the Year award for always going out of her way for her customers.

Suzanne Blake, who works at Waitrose in St Helier, has been nominated by Kay Houiellebecq, who said she always tries to find Mrs Blake because she is always more than happy to help.

“As I am well into my 90s, shopping can be a struggle,” Mrs Houiellebecq explained, but she added that the Waitrose worker makes shopping that bit easier for her.

Mrs Houiellebecq explained that she can sometimes struggle to lift her shopping, but Mrs Blake “always takes over and fills my bags and puts them into the trolley”.

She added that she could not recommend Mrs Blake enough because she was always willing to go above and beyond and take some of the stress out of the shopping experience.

Mia Le Monnier Nominated by: Janet Smith

A shop worker at M&S in St Peter has been nominated for Customer Service of the Year for “always going out of her way to make sure her customers are looked after”.

Mia Le Monnier’s nominator, Janet Smith, who is a regular shopper there, said she was “always helpful and goes out of her way to help and understand”. She “always checks in the back”, Ms Smith explained, if something is not on the shelves.

“She is polite and always there with a smile. What more could you say about this wonderful lady?”Ms Smith recalled a moment when a customer had fallen over. Ms Le Monnier was “first on the scene”, checking she was okay and got a chair from the back and “helped the lady until she was feeling more confident to go on her way”.

Ms Smith added: “She is so polite and professional, going above the call of duty while doing her duties.”

Bruno Goncalves Nominated by: Racquel Goncalves

A dedicated sales manager who consistently goes above and beyond to support his customers has been nominated for the Customer Service Employee of the Year award.

Nominator Racquel Goncalves said Bruno Goncalves, sales manager at Bel Royal Motors, was “the most hardest working person” she knew and was always committed to helping both customers and colleagues.

Ms Goncalves said Mr Goncalves was knowledgeable and took the time to listen carefully to his customers’ needs, explaining the cars and specifications available and helping them find what best suited their requirements.

She added that, despite the reputation some car salespeople had for being pushy, Mr Goncalves was “definitely not that”, and would always be honest if he felt a particular car was not right for a customer.

She also said that he was “always there with a smile on his face”, while his commitment had resulted in outstanding feedback and reviews from customers grateful for both the service they received when purchasing their cars and the ongoing support afterwards.

Rebecca Coleman Nominated by: Sophie Reid

A hairdresser whose loyalty, compassion and commitment went far beyond the usual expectations of customer service has been nominated for the Customer Service Employee of the Year award.

Nominator Sophie Reid said Rebecca Coleman, of Stylistics Hair Studio, had shown an extraordinary level of dedication over the past year after Mrs Reid was diagnosed with a brain tumour in late 2024, just two weeks after Ms Coleman joined the salon.

Mrs Reid said she underwent brain surgery followed by radiotherapy and chemotherapy, forcing her to step away from the salon she had built and take almost a year off work. “Becky stepped up,” Mrs Reid said. She explained that Ms Coleman did not simply look after her clients or keep appointments running, but effectively kept the salon going while she concentrated on her treatment. Ms Coleman took responsibility for the everyday pressures of running a busy salon and ensured clients continued to receive the “warmth, care and service” they had always known.

“There is customer service, and then there is genuinely caring about the people who walk through your door,” Mrs Reid said. “Becky embodies the latter.”

Mark Dowinton Nominated by: Martin Roberts

A man who provided a critical parish service for almost 40 years has been nominated for the Customer Service Employee of the Year award. Mark Dowinton, who recently retired after 39 years serving customers at St Helier Parish Hall, has been nominated for the award by Martin Roberts, who said he was a “wellloved and valued” member of the Town Hall team.

Mr Roberts explained that over time Mr Dowinton had developed into “a specialist” in the many service areas provided by the parish, offering “excellent and personalised” support to parishioners, while getting to know them and their families.

He said: “Parishioners rely on the parish in times of need, and his smile, wisdom and calm manner has helped a number of them through the more challenging times of their lives.

“He is a very special person who puts others before himself, which is a rare quality in today’s world.” Mr Roberts said that Mr Dowinton stayed on after retiring to help his co-workers cope during the general election in June.

Elizabeth Gomez Nominated by: Dominika O’Dwyer

A shop worker has been nominated for the Customer Service Employee of the Year award for making her customers feel “valued”.

“That is exactly what Betty does every day,” Dominika O’Dwyer said of Elizabeth Gomez, who works in the Morrisons store at Kensington Place.

“No matter how busy the shop is, she always has a genuine smile and takes the time to ask how my family is doing. She remembers people, conversations and makes every customer feel like more than just another transaction. “It never feels forced or scripted – it is simply who she is.” Ms O’Dwyer said it is Ms Gomez’s “kindness, patience and positivity” that keeps her coming back.

She explained that while more shops are replacing their employees with self-checkouts, it is people like Ms Gomez and her attitude to work who show why “human interaction still matters”.

Ms O’Dwyer added: “Betty represents the very best of our Island community: friendly, caring and genuinely invested in the people she serves. You cannot replicate that with technology.”

Fay Johnson Nominated by: Sarah Vivian

A fitness instructor at Aquasplash who encourages her clients to push their boundaries while spreading positivity is nominated in the Customer Service of the Year category.

Fay Johnson “brings happiness to all in her class,” her nominator, Sarah Vivian, said.

Ms Vivian, who attends one of her classes, said that she has been welcomed into the class which is beneficial for the mental and physical health of those who take part.

“No one is made to feel uncomfortable,” she said, adding that Ms Johnson lets people go at their own pace while still being “encouraging in pushing our limits to the best of our ability.”

Ms Vivian in particular praised the “community feel” Ms Johnson’s classes have, where all newcomers are made to feel welcome and comfortable to reach their fitness goals.

She continued: “I really think Fay deserves this award for her dedication, hardworking and caring approach. Despire her classes being full I don’t think she realises what a difference she is making to many.”

FF Windows Team Nominated by: Pamela Karimjee

A window installation company has been nominated for the Customer Service Employee of the Year award for its speedy work after the devastation of Storm Goretti.

FF Windows has been nominated for the award by Pamela Karimjee, who was impressed by the “empathy, courtesy and speed” showed by the employees who replaced the roof of her conservatory after it became damaged during the devastating storm in January.

Ms Karimjee explained that she was “dreading” this process, as it meant she would have no roof for a night, but was “astonished” with the level of care shown by the team.

“They removed everything and created what looked like an indoor swimming pool with amazing speed, removed the entire roof, and even managed to arrange for the old Sky dish to be taken down when the roof was absent,” she said.

Ms Karimjee added that, over the following days, different members of the team continued to arrive to fit the gutter and drainpipe, remove all of the protective sheeting and replace the contents – even hoovering and mopping her floors before their departure.

She added: “The quality of every aspect has all been superb – a team of perfect gentlemen.”