Judges said they were impressed by Alex’s innovation and creativity as well as his promotion of ‘an enjoyable working environment where mental health is prioritised so everybody can thrive’.
Alex said: “I’m one of those people who comes into work with high energy. Helping the team to get whatever needs to be done is a good feeling, and it’s lovely to hear that I’m making a real contribution. When you work in a nice environment with a supportive manager, it’s easy to enjoy what you do.”
He was nominated by his general manager Praveen Gujra, who described Alex as ‘truly amazing’.
“He’s vital to our team and lets us shine in a way that we wouldn’t be able to without him.
“He is very committed to sustainability, and is especially passionate when it comes to food waste. He regularly collaborates with the head chef to repurpose food waste into different soups and broths for the kitchen – and even his own special chilli sauce.
“He was instrumental in reviewing our client's waste management method, which enabled us to introduce a new recycling system that encourages waste separation.
“He has so many skills, being a KP is a fraction of what he does and he’s central to the success of our team.”
Stephen Kinkead, managing director of Winterhalter UK, added: “Alex is a brilliant KP – in a hugely competitive field, with many outstanding entries, he absolutely stood out. Kitchen Porter of the Year is all about celebrating the amazing contribution that KPs throughout the UK make to our industry.”
Along with the title of Kitchen Porter of the Year 2023, Alex wins £1,000 in vouchers plus a celebratory event for family and friends. He also wins a new Winterhalter machine for his kitchen.
The two runners up each received £250-worth of vouchers. They were Elisabetta Cenderello of 21 Hospitality Group, Newcastle Upon Tyne, and Consti Istrate, who is a KP at the Manchester Central Convention Complex.