Industry-leading systems supplier VEKA has been celebrating the achievements of its Burnley-based workforce once again, with the help of another well-known Lancashire talent.
VEKA was delighted to be joined by Dave Spikey (of Phoenix Nights fame) for the company’s second annual ‘Pride of VEKA’ event.
This year’s awards ceremony was held at a prestigious local hotel, Mitton Hall, and attended by VEKA Directors, winners from a variety of departments across the business and their partners.
VEKA is well known for singing the praises of its employees and supporting them in developing further skills at every level. Head of HR Gabriela Hammond explains: “We are exceptionally proud of our team here at VEKA. These awards celebrate those who go ‘above and beyond’ for the business and give us chance to let them know just how much they are appreciated.
“Everyone, in every department, plays an important part in moving the company forward and maintaining our position at the forefront of our industry. We know that the behaviour of every member of staff has a direct impact on the level of service our customers receive, and that’s why we feel it is so important to give credit where it’s due. The Pride of VEKA Awards allow us to give an extra ‘pat on the back’ to those who really set themselves apart.”
Individuals might be recognised for anything, from taking on further training, to outstanding leadership or volunteering within the community.
Last year’s awards were presented by sports broadcaster and former professional footballer Chris Kamara, which led to much speculation about this year’s mystery guest. Comedian Dave Spikey was welcomed with rapturous applause before presenting the awards and entertaining the audience with a host of hilarious stories throughout the night.
VEKA MD Dave Jones said: “I am very proud to represent an organisation that listens to its staff, values their ideas and constantly offers opportunities for continuous career development.
“We are lucky to have such a wealth of talent in our workforce, from brand new apprentices, to long-standing members of the team, and it is important for us to celebrate their successes – at every chance we get!
“Our people are pivotal to the continued success of the company and I would like to personally congratulate every person who collected a ‘Pride of VEKA’ award, on a hilarious evening that was thoroughlyenjoyed by all.”
A full list of winners follows below:
Mark Schofield – Courage and community spirit (especially with regards to TA service)
John Ford – Building VEKA links with the community
Terry McWilliams – Additional duties and responsibilities
Reece Gill – Problem solving and new process development
Tom Whitehead – ‘Leading the VEKA Way’ Champion
Paul Ashdown (2 x awards) – Gaining Manufacturing Institute’s Higher Level Team Leader qualification and excellent team collaboration
Sean Boothman – Gaining Manufacturing Institute’s Higher Level Team Leader qualification
Keiron Preston – Gaining Manufacturing Institute’s Higher Level Team Leader qualification
Jono Turner – Gaining Manufacturing Institute’s Higher Level Team Leader qualification
Scott Weldon – Gaining Manufacturing Institute’s Higher Level Team Leader qualification
Sam Baxter – Achieved a distinction in every one of his Apprenticeship exams this year
Annabel Hargreaves (Fowler) – Completed her Chartered Institute of Marketing Professional Diploma
Paige Thwaite – Took on two different jobs, to train and develop new skills
Lee Broomfield – Excellent team collaboration
Ben Harter – Excellent team collaboration
Dave Holmes – Excellent team collaboration
Lee Sharples – Excellent team collaboration
Mike Cutt – Excellent team collaboration
Martin White – Nominated by a number of Managers for enthusiasm and commitment to ‘going the extra mile’, demonstrating VEKA spirit every day.
