Derby Conference Centre Celebrates 25 Years of Service from Head Housekeeper
Added by Love Business East Midlands | 12 June 2025
The Derby Conference Centre is proud to honour Nicola Holmes, its longstanding Head Housekeeper, who this month celebrates an exceptional milestone, 25 years of dedicated service.
To mark this significant milestone, the Derby Conference Centre team gathered today to celebrate with Nicola. She was presented with flowers and enjoyed a small celebration with colleagues, complete with cake and a glass of fizz, an opportunity to reflect on her remarkable contribution and thank her for 25 years of unwavering service.
Richard Jones, General Manager of the Derby Conference Centre said:
"We are very proud to have Nicola in our Company and offer our congratulations on this milestone, I know how hard she works, and we truly appreciate your dedication; thank you.”
Nicola began her career with the organisation in 2000, during its time as Catalis Rail Training. Starting with a modest three-hour shift and minimal instruction, she quickly adapted to the demands of the role. Despite early challenges, her perseverance and commitment saw her grow into a key member of the team, and ultimately, a respected department leader.
Over the years, Nicola has played an instrumental role in the evolution of the venue. She has witnessed, and contributed to, the transformation of the Derby Conference Centre through significant refurbishments and upgrades. From a time when smoking was still permitted in guest bedrooms to the complete modernisation of facilities, she has been a constant presence amid continual change.
In her time at the venue, Nicola has taken on a wide range of responsibilities, becoming something of a ‘jack of all trades’. Beyond her core housekeeping duties, she has supported themed room projects, assisted in decorating for seasonal events, and even contributed to maintenance and painting tasks. Her creativity and adaptability have helped shape the guest experience in countless ways.
One of her most notable contributions was her involvement in the venues largest event to date, hosted for Bowmer and Kirkland, where she worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure its success. Her role in that event exemplified the work ethic and enthusiasm she brings to every challenge.
Nicola’s leadership within the housekeeping department has been recognised both informally and formally. She was the recipient of the venues first-ever Employee of the Year award, a testament to her dedication and influence across the organisation.
Today, she continues to lead by example, managing a close-knit team with professionalism and care. Her enduring presence and deep knowledge of the Centre make her an invaluable part of the Derby Conference Centre’s fabric.
