Portico, has held its first live event to celebrate the contributions of its longest serving employees.

Hosted on February 7 at Searcys’ Barbican Brasserie in London, the reception celebrated 45 of the company’s most loyal employees in recognition of their contribution (five-plus years).

Combined, the awarded group has collectively dedicated 275 years to Portico so far, and while the organisation has run a service recognition scheme for many years, this is the first time a ceremony-style event has been held.

Moving forwards, all team members who reach five years’ service and above will be invited to Portico’s annual Service Awards Ceremony to celebrate the milestone.

Paul Jackson, Managing Director at Portico, said: “It has been a tremendous privilege to be in the same room with all of our longest serving colleagues. Not only is this event an important way to recognise their achievements, but it also is testament to the fantastic retention rates we have at Portico – we work and progress together as a family, and there is no greater evidence of that than seeing so many happy faces at what will be the first of many service ceremonies.”

Of the 45 awards this year, 37 celebrated five or more years with the company, with each receiving a card and an extra one day’s annual leave as a mark of thanks. Six employees marked 10-plus years of service and received a card, special engraved plaque and two days of leave. Two colleagues were recognised for serving 15 years and were additionally rewarded with an experience voucher for two people at an iconic destination of their choice as well as a card, special engraved plaque and two days of leave.

A special surprise award was also given to Operations Director Hanna Barret, who has been with Portico for more than 16 years.

Carol Dalby, who celebrated 15 years with Portico at the Service Awards Ceremony, commented: “Knowing that your work and commitment is valued means a lot to all of us here. This recognition and gesture from Portico are what make the company so special to work for, and I cannot wait to see what the next chapter looks like.”

Portico’s service awards scheme ties into its mission to create a truly great place to work, ensuring that every team member loves their job and can do their best work by feeling invested in and valued. As a progressive company, Portico will continue to operate as a company with people at its heart.