Position: Shop manager
Age: 38
Nominated by: Owner Cem Oktem, who says: “Jamie has been my right hand man for 12 and a half years now. He’s the most dependable and trustworthy guy I know and it’s an absolute pleasure to work alongside him. Our growth and success would not be possible without people like Jamie in our team setting the standards for others. He started with us at Packet Bridge and then moved onto our Westgate site when we first opened in 2019. He knows how much he means to us and his loyalty does not go unrewarded. For his 10 year anniversary we sent him and his family on an all-expenses-paid trip to Mallorca to show our appreciation for everything he’s done for us. Only seven and a half years to go until the next one Jamie!”
How long have you worked at Westgate Fish & Chips?
I have worked for Cem and Cihan for 12 and a half years now, starting off at Packet Bridge back in 2012 before moving on to our second site Westgate Fish & Chips in 2019. I had previously worked part time at Packet Bridge prior to taking the full time role, so was already trained and up to speed with things before Cem disappeared on holiday just four weeks after I started!
What are your responsibilities?
As shop manager I am responsible for the day-to-day operations of the shop and managing my team. Anything from cleaning, prepping, frying or serving – ensuring all tasks are undertaken by myself or the staff to the highest standards. 
What’s your favourite part of the job?
Positive feedback. It’s extremely rewarding hearing comments from customers in the shop or seeing reviews online regarding the quality of the food, service and cleanliness.
What’s your least favourite part of the job?
Probably when shifts don’t run as smoothly as I would like. With deliveries you can often be caught off guard with how busy it’s going to be which can cause issues with the service in regards to delivery times. When lots come through at once it can throw you behind and it isn’t ideal.
What is it that you like about working at Westgate Fish & Chips?
I really enjoy working in a well run busy shop like Westgate. The shop is two minutes from my house and the hours are flexible to fit around family life as I am able to do the school run both in the morning and afternoon so I get plenty of time with my three boys.
