2018 KP of the Year competition open for entries

Now in its sixth year, the search is on for the 2018 KP of the Year

Organised by The Caterer in partnership with warewash manufacturer Winterhalter, the competition has gathered huge momentum over the last five years, attracting hundreds of entries across all sectors of hospitality for the ultimate crown of KP of the Year.

José Núnez, kitchen porter at the Stafford London, was the 2017 KP of the Year and was chosen as the overall winner of the competition for his incredible work ethic.

Núnez was a unanimous choice by the judges. In addition to his regular duties, Núnez oversees the staff canteen, and assists in the cooking of staff food; he manages the bins and storage areas for the hotel; regularly assists other departments and colleagues; and in 2016 was chosen as the Stafford's employee of the year from over 150 employees.

Mark Surguy, hotel manager for the Stafford, said: "José has been integral in reducing breakages in the hotel, has suggested new storage solutions and works relentlessly to ensure that the kitchen never has to struggle to find equipment when they need it."

Stephen Kinkead, managing director of Winterhalter UK, said: "It's wonderful that so many of our industry chefs and bosses speak so highly of their kitchen porters. They are a key member of the team and the kitchen would not function properly without them.

"We will run our fourth National KP Day on 22 June 2018 working alongside Springboard to raise some well-deserved funds for the charity and highlight the role KPs play as the hub of the kitchen. You can join the already very busy twitter forum at #kpoftheyear2018."

The 2018 KP of the Year prize includes £1,000 cash and a celebratory meal for the KP and their friends and family in a casual dining restaurant of their choice. The winner's place of work will win a prize too, in the shape of one of Winterhalter's warewash products worth up to £8,000.

What the judges look for

The judges are looking for an outstanding KP who inspires and motivates others. They may have taken on extra duties or achieved internal awards, or they may have been promoted into another role in your business. It will be someone going beyond the call of duty, and an individual willing to pass on their passion and act as a role model for other KPs in the industry.

The deadline for entries is the 3 August 2018. Applicants will be judged by a panel of industry experts (no presentation necessary) with the winner announced in October 2018.

To enter, visit www.thecaterer.com/kpoftheyear2018

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