Mr. Pickwick’s Seafood Bistro Wins National CTHRC Award for Excellence in Human Resource Development

November 06 2008

(Gatineau, QC – November 5, 2008) Vancouver’s own Mr. Pickwick’s Seafood Bistro took home the top prize for Human Resource Development at the Tourism Industry Association’s Tourism Leadership Summit. The award, presented by Canadian Tourism Human Resource Council (CTHRC) President Wendy Swedlove, recognizes businesses that have demonstrated a commitment to professionalism in the Canadian tourism workforce through professional recognition, training, and excellence in human resource management.

Known for great service, a delectable menu, and a quirky array of homemade sauces, Mr. Pickwick’s is no stranger to awards and recognition. The restaurant has been decorated with a long list of praises within both the city and the province since its inception.

Mr. Pickwick’s boasts a 0% turnover rate for 2007-2008, and inclusive hiring practices ensure a diverse and hard-working staff from all walks of life. A competitive benefits package keeps employees happy and healthy in their jobs. The business also contributes to workforce development through their ‘try out’ program. These paid student placements help young people gain hands on experience. This restaurant is on the ‘it’ list of places to work in the area. There is currently a waiting list of eager potential employees.

“Sustainable HR practices are imperative to the success of tourism businesses in Canada,” states CTHRC President Wendy Swedlove. “It is always refreshing to see a small business recognized for their strides in human resource practices. The CTHRC is pleased to acknowledge this achievement, and will continue to provide the resources necessary to allow businesses like Mr. Pickwick’s to flourish,” added Swedlove.

The CN Tower, Ontario, and Auberge Le Baluchon, Québec, were among the other finalists for this prestigious award.

About the Canadian Tourism Human Resource Council (CTHRC)

The Canadian Tourism Human Resource Council (CTHRC) is a national organization that facilitates and coordinates human resources development activities which support a globally competitive and sustainable Canadian tourism sector. They are also part of a network of tourism education councils across the country that work together to establish and implement emerit national occupational standards, tourism training and professional recognition that help the tourism sector improve financial performance by improving people performance. For further information on CTHRC visit www.cthrc.ca and on emerit products and programs visit www.emerit.ca or call 1-800-486-9158.

For more information, please contact:
Jon Kiely
Vice President of Communications
T: (613) 231-6949
E: jkiely@cthrc.ca
www.cthrc.ca