Age: 34
Position: Manager
Nominated by: Business owner Lucas Lambrou, who says: “Ben has worked his way up and been integral to the team the past couple of years. He has been instrumental in helping me raise the bar and ensuring every improvement we have made is implemented and followed. He’s a supportive and fantastic person, employee, friend and family man. He deserves the recognition that he so often shies away from.”
How long have you worked at The Fish Inn?
I started as a delivery driver in September 2021, moved to working on the grill in February 2022, and now I manage the shop. I attended the NFFF training course in Leeds to learn the ins and outs of what it takes to not just be great, but to stand out.
What are your responsibilities?
I work the grill, cooking the burgers and kebabs as well as the fryers, frying fish and the other products we sell. I also cut and prepare the chips to ensure we get the best flavour and quality. Finally, I cut and prepare the fish, which includes cod, haddock, skate and rock. So really, between Lucas and me, we do everything.
What’s your favourite part of the job?
I love cutting fish and then cooking it, thinking about all the effort that went into it that morning. I also love the staff, as we are a really solid team. I know it’s cliché, but we really do feel like a family.
What’s your least favourite part of the job?
The smell after cutting the fish. I don’t mind it so much anymore, but it’s more my fiancé. She 100% knows when I’ve just finished cutting them. I also am not a fan of the rogue splash of oil on the arm, which always takes you by surprise!
What is it that you like about working at The Fish Inn?
I’ve had my fair share of jobs, but this is the first place I’ve felt at home, if that makes sense. Working alongside the owner makes me feel like I’m making a difference rather than just being a payroll number. I’ve grown very close with Lucas and his family, and I love seeing the business grow. It’s an amazing feeling, knowing that he trusts me and really values my ideas.
How do you feel about being nominated as an Unsung Hero?
Shocked! I’ve always tried my best in this job role, and going from a driver all the way to the store manager has been an amazing journey. I never felt proud in a job until I started here. I can’t wait to see what other journeys the team and I will have next. I would like to thank Lucas and Miranda for nominating me for this. These people are the best!
