Shopping centre manager receives national award

THE manager of a West Midlands shopping centre has been recognised in a national awards scheme for her work overseeing a £4m refurbishment.

Erica Burlace, who runs the CrownGate Shopping Centre in Worcester, was named the manager of the year of a medium-sized centre in the SCEPTRE Awards.

She beat off competition from shopping centres in Middlesex, Essex, London, Hampshire and Suffolk.

Judges said they were impressed with how she managed the 18-month, £4m refurbishment of the centre, how footfalls were maintained and that dwell times increased while the work was going on.

She was also praised for her efforts to improve relationships with her tenants and reduce service charges as well as the introduction of environmental initiatives within the centre.

The awards were launched a decade ago and recognise excellence in the retail industry, attracting hundreds of entries from across the UK each year.

She picked up her award at a ceremony in London’s Dorcester Hotel hosted by broadcaster Nicholas Parsons.

Ms Burlace, who has been in the role for just over two years, said: “I am absolutely thrilled.

“I love my job and the team I work with and have worked hard over the past two years to ensure that the centre and my tenants are given the best possible opportunities to succeed and thrive.

“The role of the centre manager has changed dramatically in recent years in response to the economic climate and industry demands – so for my work to be recognised is a huge boost.”

John Michell, from the centre’s manager King Sturge, added: “This award is a real tribute to all the hard work and enthusiasm demonstrated by Erica and her team in running CrownGate, particularly during a major refurbishment.

“We have been very impressed with the team’s professionalism and dedication and believe this award is thoroughly deserved.”