24 April 2025
We’re pleased to share that four FirstPort colleagues have been recognised as News on the Block’s Unsung Heroes for 2025.
The awards, which are in partnership with Jackson Sims Recruitment, are in place to recognise those across the property industry who go above and beyond to make a positive difference to the communities they manage.
You can read the nominations below, which highlights the positive impact their work has had:
Mellissa, Development Manager:
Mellissa has been working as a retirement Development Manager for the past eight years, and in that time she has shown dedication, professionalism, and commitment to both her residents and colleagues. In particular, Mellissa spent several years navigating a challenging and complex repair project at the development, which has required frequent engagement with the landlord, contractors, and surveyors. Throughout this process, Mellissa has been the bridge between all parties, ensuring that the needs of residents remain at the forefront.
Mellissa consistently goes above and beyond, often adjusting her own personal schedule to accommodate contractors, facilitate repairs, and oversee works on-site.
Mellissa is also a respected mentor within her regional team. She is often the first point of contact for other Development Managers, providing technical support, practical guidance, and training that benefits the entire team.
Ivan, Concierge:
Ivan has worked as a concierge for three years and has continuously made a positive contribution to the team and the development. Ivan is a respected member of the team at Glasshouse Gardens, a strong communicator and known amongst both colleagues and residents for his attentive nature, with a keen eye for detail and a willingness to go above and beyond to ensure the smooth running of the development.
Earlier this year, Ivan stepped up in the absence of his Head Concierge, to manage the impact of roadworks on site, which disrupted refuse collections.
Ivan took a lead on resolving the issues, engaging external stakeholders, including the contractors as well as the local council, to ensure that all parties were aware of the issues on site and taking a strategic approach to resolving them. He put plans in place to protect the operational requirements of the development throughout the duration of the works. As a result of Ivan’s endeavour, residents have been delighted with the steps taken and no further concerns have been raised since, again demonstrating his contribution to the community at his development, and to the team at FirstPort.
Pete, Estate Porter:
Pete was recognised by residents at his Later Living development. The residents wrote: “All of the staff at the retirement complex do a great job and that needs to be recognised. Pete, who has been on staff for many years could so easily be on sick leave. He has been undergoing cancer treatment but still struggles to work. That is appreciated by residents to the extent that we have had a rota to give him lifts home after his partner drives him to work.”
Helber, Administrative Assistant:
Helber consistently goes above and beyond in his role at a large London development, not only in terms of time and effort but also in the case and consideration he shows customers.
Helber’s upbeat attitude, wide welcoming smile, and calm demeanour make him a standout team member. His ability to remain composed and positive in challenging situations is admirable. Helber’s dedication to providing exceptional service and his unwavering commitment to our customers make him a deserving candidate for this award.
