Every company aspires to attract loyal and dedicated staff, but perhaps none achieve it quite as apparently as Gallagher Convention Centre.
Anna Malaza, or Mama Anna as she is referred to by many on the property, started at Gallagher Convention Centre in 1993 when the centre officially opened. She grew with the company as more vacancies became available, starting as Switch Board Operator before moving to the Main Reception and then to the position of Guest Relations Officer. Her appointment as Guest Relations Officer transpired from a recognition of Anna’s passion for working with and assisting Gallagher’s clients, as well as how perfectly the role suits her friendly and efficient nature.
More recently, Anna was promoted to Guest Relations Manager, which is the position she holds today.
During Anna’s 30-year tenure, she has been able to watch the company grow into the premier event venue in Gauteng it is today, boasting 27 venues within its 32 hectare property, and offering five-star service. She cites several career highlights, with some of her favourite being meeting high-profile guests who have been hosted at the venue.
Anna acted quickly and took off her own shoes to give to the speaker, ensuring the event carried on smoothly and no one was any the wiser.
Another highlight for her are the many awards she has received. For example, in 2012 she was awarded the Fernando Fontes Award. Gallagher gives this award to a staff member who has distinguished themselves during a particular year. In 2012, Anna came to the rescue when a guest speaker’s heel broke in reception minutes before she was to go onto the stage. Being a high-profile event, Anna acted quickly and took off her own shoes to give to the speaker, ensuring the event carried on smoothly and no one was any the wiser. After the speaking engagement, Anna returned the speaker’s shoes, which had by then been mended by Gallagher’s maintenance team.
As Gallagher celebrates its thirtieth birthday this year, it also wants to take the time to celebrate and commemorate Anna’s thirty years of service – especially during women’s month, for such a commendable women.
