A leisure club receptionist who “always goes the extra mile” has won a top award for the second year running.
Natalie Desmond, 21, of Forest Road, Swords, Dublin, has scooped a 1,000 Euro cash prize after being voted employee of the year for the Total Fitness group.
Last year she was named top receptionist, but bosses – who said she was a high performer who always went the extra mile – felt she deserved more and moved her into a higher category for this year’s annual awards.
Des Daly, manager of the Total Fitness club at Malahide where Natalie works, said: “Natalie is a joy to work with. She joined us in November 2007 and performs very well is every role. She is a gem and deserves to win this title.”
Natalie, a former pupil of Colaiste Dhulaigh High School in Coolock, Dublin, moved into the fitness industry after spending several years in retail.
She said: “I wanted to improve my career prospects and I’ve never looked back since I joined Total Fitness. I really do love every aspect of the job, the staff and the members.
“I’ve been given more responsibility, taking on the role of duty support manager, and I’d eventually like to be a manager myself.
“Winning this award was a complete surprise, especially after last year. I’m absolutely delighted.”
Natalie, who comes from a large family of four sisters and three brothers, has taken a sensible approach to the money.
“I was tempted to go shopping with it,” she confessed. “But I’ve actually saved it and hope to take a little holiday later in the year.”
ends