National Finalist After 28 Years of Service at the James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor, Wellington
Lance Webster, morning restaurant personality and High Tea connoisseur at the James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor has been named one of three Food & Beverage Employee of the Year finalists for the prestigious New Zealand Hotel Industry Awards 2019.
With a career spanning an impressive 28 years at the leading capital hotel, Lance is known for an engaging and personalised approach to customer service, consistently recognised in guest reviews and by hotel management. His award submission was endorsed further by written references from external organisations, including the Rotary Club Wellington, a long-standing client at the busy 17th floor Whitby’s Restaurant.
Lance’s point of difference is his eagerness to go out of his way to seek and develop his culinary expertise through travel and research. Each morning he begins his day by reading the paper, educating himself on what is happening around town and what to recommend to diners. When travelling, Lance is absorbing knowledge to implement to the breakfast and High Tea service at Whitby’s Restaurant.
For example, he has attended various tea demonstrations over the years and has sampled High Teas in Canada and England to further understand distinct experiences. He knows that Ceylon Tea leaves are grown at a higher altitude and therefore are slightly lighter in taste with elegant flavours. He takes the time to share his knowledge with new team members, alongside entwinning the facts subtly into the guest experience, as outlined in the following guest review.
“A five-star High Tea experience. Lance was the most informative staff member. With a can do attitude and amazing knowledge, combined with the tea and food selection, this is a must do experience in Wellington.”
Reflecting on Lance’s success, Hotel General Manager Steve Martin is immensely proud of Lance’s long tenure, his passion for customer service and knowledge that he happily shares with new employees.
“We believe Lance is a champion for a successful and fulfilled career within the New Zealand Hotel industry and the entire hotel team are honoured that he has been recognised as a finalist.”
Winners of the New Zealand Hotel Industry Awards are announced at a premium Gala dinner in Auckland this week. An avid train enthusiast, Lance is travelling the North Island courtesy of Kiwirail on the Northern Explorer, an experience he will passionately be sharing and promoting to guests for years to come.
Media Contact details:
Jessica Taylor | Marketing & Communications Manager | James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor
021 190 7368 E: marketing@jamescookhotel.co.nz
About the James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor
The James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor is one of the capital’s leading hotels, known for welcoming service, quality accommodation and environmentally conscious initiatives. Conveniently situated between the leading retail district of Lambton Quay and the business hub of The Terrace, the 4 ½ star hotel features 268 accommodation rooms, valet parking, two restaurants and bars, a day spa, complimentary Wi-Fi and fitness facilities. A $12m refurbishment is currently in progress, with new Executive Rooms due to open in July 2019.