York PA Michael Crowned the UK's Top Temporary Worker

At a House of Commons reception yesterday afternoon (Wednesday), Michael was crowned the UKís top temporary worker and presented with the One in a Million Award. This is the highlight of National Temporary Workers Week this week (June 4-8) which is organised by the Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC).

Michael from Bishops Wharf was in contention for the award with 13 other finalists after winning on the Agency Office Worker category supported by Oriel.

Nominated for the award by Adeccoís York office, Michael impressed the judges with his total dedication and commitment to his current job working on a long term contract as PA for regional director Maggie Williams at the Alzheimerís Society.

In fact, Michael has not looked back since he gave up publishing as a career to become a PA. He signed up with Adecco last October originally as a temporary waiter but very soon they realised he was not being used to his full potential.

His first assignment in administration proved such a success, three companies started bidding for his services in a permanent position. But instead, Michael went on assignment to the Society where he has completely revolutionised its way of working.

As well as fulfilling all the administrative duties for Maggie, Michael also decided to take a dementia induction course to give himself a better insight into the disease and how it can affect people of all ages. He will also be competing in the Great North Run this year to raise funds for the Societyís work.

Maggie Williams, his Director, said: ìIf anyone came near Mike to poach him, I would tie him to the chair so he couldnít leave. Mikeís skill level and commitment are beyond anything I have ever seen.î

To illustrate this, Maggie cites two instances of him delivering important papers to her which meant him sprinting along railway station platforms and handing them to her just as her train was pulling out of York.

Explained Anita Holbrow, the RECís Director of Marketing and a member of the judging panel: ìMichael totally compelled us with the sheer force of his personality and his amazing abilities which have now probably completely redefined the job specifications for a PA.

ìHis boss, through her glowing testimony to the judging panel, also knows just how fortunate she is to have Michael as her right hand man.î

Anita added: ìIn winning this award, he has also demonstrated that there is no longer a stereotype for any particular job and that employers should look towards recruiting a more diverse workforce as they could discover someone as totally dedicated, talented and irreplaceable as Michael.

ìHe also shows the calibre of people who are now choosing to work on a temporary basis to fit in with their busy lifestyles and other commitments.î

Steven Kirkpatrick, managing director, Adecco Staffing commented: We are delighted that Michael's efforts and dedication, often above and beyond the call of duty, have been recognised by these fantastic awards. Michael is a role model to all workers and really highlights that temporary employment can no longer be perceived as an inferior career choice

Helen Reynolds, the RECís Acting Chief Executive Officer, said: ìOur sincerest congratulations to Michael on his marvellous achievement. He is a perfect example of how by finding a job he really enjoys, he can bring his own special talents to the workplace and completely transform the lives of those with whom he is assigned.î

National Temporary Workers Week celebrates the contribution the UKís 1.2 million strong temporary workforce makes to the economy and in keeping business on the move. It also highlights how working in a temporary, contract or interim suits increasing numbers of people in allowing them flexibility to work to suit their busy lifestyles.

For more information about the One in a Million Award and National Temporary Workers Week, visit the website: