The award for Stewarding Person of the Year 2011, sponsored by A.Ronai and Steelite, was given to Frederick D'Silva, stewarding manager at the Grand Hyatt Dubai.

The steward has one of the toughest jobs in the hotel, but plays an absolutely essential role in every kitchen team. The accolade, which recognises a steward who has enhanced a hotel’s operations, was given to D’Silva because of his commitment to developing the personal progression of his staff, and his involvement in a forward-thinking recycling scheme.

Speaking to Hoteliermiddleeast.com after the awards on his recognition for staff development, D’Silva said: “I am a people’s person. As soon as I see something in someone, I take it and push them, and give them the extra drive and confidence to progress.

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"Management at the Grand Hyatt have been very supportive. That’s the way it should be. If you get support from your management, you can pass that support on to your team."

Also highly commended in this category was Khan Abdulhaque from Riyadh Conference Palace (IHG).