News
Employee of the Year
SSE Audio Group announce the first recipient of its Employee of the Year award.
Pictured: John Penn and Simon Gladstone
Technical Manager, Simon Gladstone was named as Employee of the Year at a staff party in January.
Announcing the introduction of the award, Group Managing Director John Penn explained:
"The board felt that as staff numbers in the Company have grown it is important to show that the individual efforts of staff are noticed and that what they do can and does make a difference."
The award citation to Simon underlines this point, recognising his outstanding contribution throughout the year.
"Simon has maintained a constant 'above & beyond' approach to his role, not only in his area of expertise but throughout the Group. He is willing to help anyone in any department of the Company. Simon's commendable standard has set an outstanding example to us all"
Based at SSE Headquarters in Redditch, Simon manages the Group's IT, including its computer network, web facilities, email and the Group's intranet system, which he created and maintains. He also runs electronic manufacturing, designing PCBs and taking a range of products through design and into production. He overseas all the drive racks and amplifier software and is often involved with the Group's installations at venues.
During 2009, Simon managed the introduction of a completely new email system over one weekend, with only an hour offline.
Simon joined SSE in 2003, initially with responsibility for amp racks. His role expanded as he became responsible for drive racks and IT. Later he was also put in charge of electronic manufacturing. The IT requirements have grown significantly as the Group has expanded with the merger with Canegreen and the development of SSE London.
As part of the award, Simon has been given a villa holiday in Portugal.
When asked for this reaction to the award, in his usual unassuming manner he responded:
"Speechless and honoured!"
Released on 1st March 2010
