Job title: Assistant manager
Age: 25
Nominated by: Tom Hartley, business owner, who says: “Karl works hard and doesn’t always get the praise he deserves. He’s always first through the door (and the one who puts the coffee on) and usually the last to leave. He never complains about any of the jobs he’s given and takes pride in whatever role he’s playing that day.
“Trade has been tough since summer ended, with new competition opening nearby and customers watching their spending as we head toward Christmas, but Karl still turns up every day with the same energy and focus. He genuinely wants to see the business do well and goes out of his way to make sure it does. He’s loyal, driven and generous — the kind of person every workplace needs.”
How long have you worked at The Master Fryer?
I started working for The Master Fryer when I was 16 turning 17 – so about nine years ago now. It was around May or June 2017, and I still feel lucky to be working alongside some of the same people who trained me all those years ago.
What are your responsibilities?
My responsibilities vary from running the shop on my designated days, overseeing staff and keeping up high standards of cleaning and customer service. I handle all frying duties when the owner is off, making sure everything runs smoothly and up to standard. I also make sure we’re well stocked on our homemade products and prep the fish and potatoes for the days I work. At weekends, I’m an all-rounder – juggling frying, food prep, cleaning down and serving customers like a pro.
What’s your favourite part of the job?
Genuinely, it’s cooking food for customers and chatting with them while building relationships. I love getting stuck into new menu ideas too – sometimes even testing my own experiments. Not all of them turn out great though! I learnt the hard way that Marmite sauce and battered halloumi don’t mix.
What’s your least favourite part of the job?
It’s hard to think of a least favourite part, but the early starts can sting sometimes and missing the last train home is never fun. I definitely have some least favourite moments though – which always seem to be the smelly jobs. The worst was the legendary “pea incident” when I over-soaked them, they started to ferment, and the bag burst all over me as I went to throw them away. I’m still finding peas in my nightmares.
What is it that you like about working at The Master Fryer?
You’re never stood around bored, there’s always something to do and something new to learn. I really enjoy the social side of it too. We’ve got a good team and there’s always a laugh to be had. The morning coffee ritual with the boss has become a bit of a tradition. I also like that for a lot of people this is their first proper job, and it’s great seeing them learn, grow and gain confidence while they’re with us. Plus, I’ve managed to get everyone hooked on Fantasy Premier League, which I seem to be doing better at than the boss.
How do you feel about being nominated as an Unsung Hero?
Honestly, I was shocked. I always try to put the hard work in and go the extra mile, so it’s a real blessing to be recognised. I’m really grateful to have been nominated.
