September Employee Recognition

Group of people standing indoors, smiling, and holding certificates. They are part of the "Butler's Pantry Hospitality Hero Recipients 2017." A sign in the background mentions a ballroom and conference location.

Butler’s Pantry’s success is directly correlated to its strong team and hardworking employees that are constantly striving to surpass client goals and expectations. We are so fortunate to have so many outstanding members on our staff and are thrilled to spotlight some of our industry all-stars every month. This month is very special because we would like to recognize our team members who were nominated for Explore St. Louis’s 2018 “Hospitality Heroes” – an annual award ceremony recognizing St. Louis employees who have gone above and beyond in providing stellar customer service.

We are happy to announce that we have three award winners this year and their names are Chris Hickombottom, Fatima Kuzeli, and Natalie Small. We are so proud of these employees and are extremely lucky to have them as a part of our team at Butler’s Pantry! Here are a few reasons why these employees are receiving this award:

Natalie Small – Sous Chef
Natalie is the epitome of an enthusiastic and devoted employee. She leads the catering team for Butler’s Boardroom, a fast-paced and ever-changing role– preparing off-site meetings and boardroom events for large corporate clients. Recently, Natalie committed to producing a VIP event in Jefferson City. She spent countless hours meeting and preparing an unforgettable event. Natalie was on-site from 11 a.m.- 11 p.m. in Jefferson City. The client was thrilled. As the event wrapped up., Natalie received a last minute Butler’s Boardroom order to be delivered the next day. On her own accord, Natalie jumped in the car and spent three hours driving back to St. Louis. In the early hours of the morning, Natalie put fatigue and her day off aside; she drove straight to Butler’s Pantry’s kitchen to assist the team in producing and delivering the last minute request. Natalie’s hilarious personality and positive energy lift the kitchen staff and Front of House alike! A natural chameleon of sorts, Natalie often has a new hair style or color, which can speak to an upcoming holiday or even a client’s event theme!

Chris Hickombottom – Dishwasher
Chris is hardworking, dependable and loyal. Each day he goes above and beyond …giving the Butler’s Pantry family/team everything that he has to offer. While Chris’ official job is a dishwasher, he is always the first person to jump in and provide a helping hand anywhere he is needed. Recently, a lead member of Butler’s Pantry’s kitchen staff had to take a brief medical leave. The culinary team was short staffed and down one fearless leader. In a time where chaos could have ensued, Chris stepped up and provided a hand to make sure each event was a success. He stayed late and worked well beyond his job responsibilities. That evening, Butler’s Pantry fed over 1,500 people at 16 different events across St. Louis – on a Thursday. The next morning, the team of dishwashers understood that a successful Thursday meant a busy Friday. Exhausted? Overwhelmed? Frustrated by the hectic week? Not Chris. He arrived with a smile on his face and a cheerful ‘Good Morning’ to lift each team member.

Fatima Kuzelj – Garde Manger at Cafe Madeline
Fatima will stop at nothing to ensure a fantastic dining experience for each and every guest. Fatima constantly “manages” the buffet … chatting with guests and eyeing the display. But, what many do not realize, is that Fatima prefers to be near the buffet so she can assist guests who have questions – culinary or other, as well as assist those with preparation/dietary restrictions. Fatima frequently hears of a guest’s dietary restriction or request and quickly swoops in to provide them with options that fit their needs – all without notice or question from the individual! Butler’s Pantry is truly lucky to have Fatima as an employee. She cares for the guest/client…no request is too wild or “out of her wheelhouse” to complete. She gives 110% each and every day.

Our Team