Dame Irene Hays’ second-in-command, former apprentice Jonathon Woodall-Johnston, was one of 23 staff to receive a long service award from Hays Travel this week.
Jonathon joined Hays in 2005, rising through the ranks to become Chief Operating Officer in 2020, following the death of co-owner John Hays.
He received his 20-year service award, alongside 22 others, at a dinner hosted by Hays Chair Irene at Ramside Hall Hotel in Durham.
They each received a piece of Sunderland studio glass from National Glass Centre, and a Hays Travel voucher to redeem against their own holiday.
Irene said: “Loyalty is one of our core values and we actively look for opportunities to recognise those colleagues who have consistently contributed to Hays Travel’s success. This annual celebration event is a thank you to our people who have been with us for 10, 20, and even 30 years.
“It was a particular highlight to recognise so many colleagues who joined us as apprentices, including our Chief Operating Officer Jonathon Woodall-Johnston.
“His career and those of others who have forged successful careers in travel truly inspire our apprentices – we currently have over 500 in the business. My congratulations to everyone celebrating their service milestones and thank you for your loyalty to Hays Travel.”
Retail Director Jane Schumm, added: “We recognise our colleagues’ loyalty as early as six months after joining our Hays Travel family, and we give our people the opportunity to learn, develop and progress in their work.
“We encourage everyone to follow their own path, and we are grateful that so many decide to stay with us for the long haul – which we credit to our company culture, values and advancement opportunities.”
Celebrating her 30-year milestone was Samantha Birdsey (above, left), a travel consultant at Hays Travel’s Darlington branch. Branch manager Natalie Wood said: “Sam is an absolute diamond and a valued asset to the business. Her loyal customers trust her with their holiday plans year after year. She is honestly an absolute credit to Hays Travel and we are very lucky to have her!”
A second event celebrating long-serving colleagues based in the south will follow later this month.
