Age: 22
Job title: Assistant manager
Nominated by: Business owner Adam Hird, who says: “I nominate our daughter Amber as she deserves the recognition as our unsung hero. She works so hard for the business and is an absolute joy to work with. She has helped us grow our business to what it is today and is so well-liked by all of the team and customers.”
How long have you worked at Hirds?
I’ve been working part-time at Hirds for eight years. Four years ago, I became full-time and took on more responsibilities. I’d like to add that my overzealous parents recruited me into the family business despite my resistance. I was hooked before I knew it, I was donning an apron and wielding a chip scoop like a pro. Family businesses are like quicksand- once you step in, there’s no escape!
What are your responsibilities?
As the assistant manager, I’ve got a lot on my plate. I’m responsible for everything from food preparation to staff training, ensuring that our food meets the highest standards. I also manage the cleaning schedule and take care of updating the menu boards.
What’s your favourite part of the job?
Working with my family as a team is my absolute favourite part of my job. I’m so lucky to have my dad, Adam, my mum, Alison, my brother, Aiden, and my grandma, Diane, all on board. It’s an incredible experience to create and come up with new and exciting dishes with my dad. And there’s nothing quite like making a customer’s favourite dish. It’s truly rewarding to see the joy it brings to people’s faces. On top of all that, winning awards and accolades for our shop is a huge honour. It’s proof that our hard work and dedication are paying off, and it gives us the confidence to keep going. And let me tell you, being on TV and winning Britain’s Top Takeaway with my dad was one of the biggest achievements of my life! It was an incredible experience that I’ll cherish forever.
What’s your least favourite part of the job?
I can’t say I have anything I don’t enjoy about the job, but the deliveries can be stressful when they arrive at the same time with a shop full and a queue out the door.
What do you like about working at Hirds?
Oh, there’s just so much to love about this job! Working with my family, creating and making dishes that I’m passionate about is an absolute dream come true. And let me tell you, interacting with our customers is the best part. I get to listen to their amazing stories, be someone they can talk to, and make their day brighter. It’s truly rewarding!
How do you feel about being nominated as an Unsung Hero?
Oh my gosh, being nominated is absolutely incredible! I started as a server, and then after the TV show, I took on even more responsibilities, becoming a frier and then assistant manager. It’s amazing how my hard work is being recognised and appreciated. It’s so gratifying to know that my efforts don’t go unnoticed.
