Polish catering manager wins NI apprentice award

21/05/2009 12:52:52

A Polish migrant worker has been named the Northern Ireland Department for Employment and Learning's Apprentice of the Year in recognition of his achievements in the hospitality sector, it has been reported.

Belfast-based Rafal Cherezniak left his homeland in October 2006 to seek restaurant work in the UK and has successfully moved up from a kitchen porter role with Castle Catering to work in one of the firm's leading catering manager jobs.

Since joining the national apprenticeship programme at Belfast Metropolitan College, the 24-year-old has progressed to level three in hospitality supervision and is now responsible for 20 staff members.

Employment and learning minister Sir Reg Empey, who recently presented Mr Cherezniak with the award at the Belfast Hilton Hotel, commented: "[Rafal] has emerged as a clear leader and is recognised by his employer as a young man with a great desire to succeed, demonstrating a high degree of commitment throughout his apprenticeship.

"He has made a significant and valuable contribution to Castle Catering and is a wonderful role model for others considering an apprenticeship."

The Belfast Telegraph recently reported that the 145-bedroom Park Inn Hotel in the city has enjoyed high occupancy rates since opening at the end of last year.

Some 60 hospitality jobs were created when the facility threw open its doors in December 2008.

Contract catering jobs in Belfast

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