Three wonder women are in a spin after hundreds of their colleagues voted them top of the tree to work with.
The trio work in the customer service centre of UK Power Networks, based in Ipswich, Suffolk. They were voted Leader of the Year, Employee of the Year and a special award for Lifetime Achievement.
With their 350 colleagues they work 24/7 shifts in the centre ready to answer any call from around 20 million customers in the East, South East and London.
Alfonsa Davies (Fonnie), from Ipswich, said it was “such a shock” to be voted Leader of the Year. She has worked in customer service with the power company for 14 years and regards her team as “a little family”.
“The thank you and positive comments we get from customers we have helped is amazing.”
Colleagues wrote in their nominations; “Fon is a powerhouse! Fonnie is a leader who motivates her teams to give their best every day. She encourages and empowers employees to make decisions, offering support and guidance.”
Hannah Biddiscombe, from Kesgrave, won Employee of the Year and has worked at UK Power Networks for two years.
Nominating her for the award one colleague put:” Hannah has always put 100% into her work. She Is always willing to get stuck into different tasks, is a great team player, a pleasure to work with and always has a smile on her face.”
Hannah’s solution to angry customers on the end of the phone is; “You need patience – give customers the opportunity to talk, show them empathy and understanding.”
Helen Berry, who lives in Great Blakenham, was presented with a Lifetime Achievement award. Helen has been with the company for 20 years, all of them in customer service, rising through the ranks to become a duty manager.
Her appreciative nominations described her as “A key player – a major part of the day to day running of the centre – Helen’s efforts go a huge way in keeping it a happy place – she is relied on for her extensive experience and knowledge – Her dedication to supporting her colleagues and her proactive approach make her an invaluable asset.”
Helen said: It’s nice to be recognised for the various contributions I have made over the years. The people and the environment really make it a great place to work.”
