Author: Jaime

National Customer Service Week (NCSW) is here, running from 6 to 10 October, and we couldn’t be more excited to celebrate and reflect on the incredible work our DayMakers do every single day.

NCSW is a week-long opportunity for organisations to recognise and reflect on achievements, with a theme on each day of the week from recognising evolving customer needs to innovation and recognition.

While technology continues to reshape the way we interact, one truth stands firm: great customer service is about people. It’s the warm welcome at reception, the thoughtful gesture no one expects, and the extra effort that makes someone’s day brighter. That’s why, this National Customer Service Week, we’re celebrating our DayMakers – the people who bring this to life every day.

What customer service means to our DayMakers

If there’s one thing our DayMakers agree on, it’s this: great service is all about caring. Whether it’s taking the time to listen, solve a problem, or go the extra mile – even in the smallest of ways.

“It’s about creating a moment that leaves a lasting positive impression.” – Fara Painter, Operations Support at On Verve

“Sometimes problems can’t be fixed straight away but showing that you’re willing to help can be just as positive.” – Hollie Hawkins, DayMaker

Lauren Suddards, one of our DayMakers who was crowned Receptionist of the Year at the Corporate Receptionist of the Year (CROTY) Awards 2025, says “Tailoring your service based on who you’re serving and always giving that personal touch to make sure everyone feels valued and appreciated.”

Samantha Challenger, Facilities Manager at Lauren’s office said of Lauren “it’s the way she genuinely cares about people and goes the extra mile without even thinking twice”.

Carl Helmke, our Guest Experience Manager said it’s “going beyond someone’s expectations,” and that this “can bring you a sense of fulfilment in yourself as well”. Harry Wolfe, DayMaker agreed and added it’s “about making the customer feel cared about”.

What we can learn from our DayMakers

Here are a few simple, yet powerful ways that our DayMakers bring customer service to life every day:

Anticipate someone’s needs before they are voiced

Great service often means spotting a challenge before it becomes a problem. For example, if a meeting is booked for 18 people in a room that only fits 10, our DayMaker would step in, suggest a better space and rebook it seamlessly. That kind of foresight not only prevents frustration but also shows people they’re truly cared for.

Add personal touches that build community

Sometimes it’s the little things that transform the workplace into somewhere people love to be. Whether it’s wellbeing updates, setting up a playlist for the office, or leaving snacks in the break room, these gestures foster connection. At our head office in Luton, Selesha has become an expert at this. From organising coffee treats for International Coffee Day to running a bake sale to raise money for charity, she creates belonging and a purpose for everyone to come into the office.

Going the extra mile with human touches

Small, consistent gestures often have the biggest impact. Remembering someone’s name, their coffee order, or simply greeting them with genuine warmth. Lauren Suddard is no stranger to providing an exceptional guest experience to guests. Having been named Receptionist of the Year at the Corporate Receptionist of the Year (CROTY) Awards 2025, she was recognised for her ability to elevate everyday interactions into moments that make people feel seen, valued and welcomed.

Customer service stories

Everybody has a time when someone else has brightened their day or gone that extra mile to help them out in a tricky situation. Here are some real-life examples and stories from when our DayMakers went above and beyond for others.

Michael once delivered a stadium tour and recognised that many of the attendees were Greek. Luckily for them, Michael also speaks Greek and decided to present the tour in both English and Greek, so every guest, no matter their language, could enjoy the full experience.

“When the lady and her family arrived, the joy on her face upon seeing the specially prepared table was truly priceless.” The daughter, who organised the event, was immensely grateful for Edyta and the team’s efforts which made the day memorable. “This experience highlighted the power of thoughtful gestures and personalised service in creating lasting memories.”

Neve-Marie Mullarkey didn’t just point out a guest’s flat tyre – she grabbed her own pump and helped a customer get back on the road.

Sometimes the lasting impressions are just the small gestures that bring a smile to those we’re interacting with. And sometimes, those gestures could mean the world to the person we’re helping.

The future of customer service

There’s no denying that customer service is evolving. With the rise in AI, chatbots and automation, getting help from a real person seems rarer and farther between. Our DayMakers know where the balance lies.

“AI can support service delivery, but it can’t replicate the warmth, empathy, and intuition that come from real people.” – Neve-Marie Mullarkey, Daymaker

“Customers will expect speed and efficiency from technology, but they’ll treasure the moments of empathy, kindness, and personal touch that only people can provide.” – Fara Painter

Carl Helmke added, “automating parts of my day means I have a chance to do what I do best, build strong connections with people and create memories for them.”

The future of customer service will be a blend of smart tools for efficiency, but the beauty of connection will still lie with the people.

Our “why?”

These stories and perspectives are proof that the heart of customer service will always be human. Technology can be a tool or help us be more efficient – but only people can truly bring empathy, warmth and care.

Our DayMakers are the people who bring that human touch across our client sites and the communities we work in. That’s why we’re proud to shine a spotlight on them this National Customer Service Week. They are the ones who transform ordinary interactions into memorable moments that matter. And for us, that’s what customer service is all about.

The corporate office landscape is evolving rapidly. As hybrid working cements its place in the long-term strategy of many organisations, the office must now compete with home environments by offering something truly distinctive: a human-centric experience.

Facilities management (FM) is no longer just about operational efficiency, it’s about belonging, brand expression, and employee wellbeing. And no team is better equipped to lead this transformation than front-of-house and guest services.

A workplace is more than four walls

Hybrid working has given people choice. The office is no longer just about desks and meeting rooms; it is about connection, belonging, and feeling part of something bigger. At On Verve, we believe the true heart of the workplace is its people.

That’s why our DayMakers do more than welcome; they create moments that matter. A smile, a kind greeting, and a small act of care can transform an office into a place where people feel valued and supported. Their presence turns a workplace from a transactional space into a destination people genuinely want to be in.

Hear more about what it means to be a DayMaker.

Why human touch matters

Across London’s commercial real estate, from high-rise HQs in Canary Wharf to creative hubs in Shoreditch, organisations are rethinking what makes the office valuable. It’s no longer just a hub for collaboration; it’s a reflection of company culture.

Front-of-house receptionists, concierges, and workplace hosts are the face of the office. When done well, they do more than manage bookings or direct visitors; they create a warm, professional, and welcoming environment that people remember. In a world increasingly driven by screens, that human connection becomes a powerful reason to come into the office.

Technology helps, but humans transform

Of course, technology, and AI in particular, has a key role to play in the future workplace. Smart buildings, predictive maintenance, and digital concierge platforms are advancing rapidly, making operations seamless. But while technology enhances efficiency, it cannot replace the feeling of being welcomed, understood, and cared for. The future belongs to workplaces that blend innovation with empathy, where efficiency meets personality, and where people, not just processes, are at the heart of the experience.

More than service, it’s who we are

On Verve was born from a belief that service should never be a script. It should feel personal and human. Our DayMakers bring warmth and personality into the workplace, while capturing the culture of each brand we represent. They are the welcoming faces at reception, the calm support behind guest management, and the energy at workplace events. They make sure every visitor feels looked after, every employee feels at home, and every detail reflects your culture.

Find out more about some of the DayMakers.

A workplace that feels human becomes a community

Ultimately, when people feel good at work, they do good work. They connect, they collaborate, they belong. That’s when your workplace stops being an obligation and starts being a community.

The companies that thrive in the future will be those that design spaces where people feel valued, connected, and inspired. When a workplace makes people feel good, it becomes more than just an office; it becomes a catalyst for performance, pride, and belonging.

Explore how our tailored solutions can bring a human touch and efficiency to your workspace.

Find out more.

Our DayMakers are the beating heart of On Verve and what we do. They’re the ones who bring a human touch, warmth and connection to every interaction. They can make someone’s ordinary day a little more extraordinary.

But here’s the thing – that spark doesn’t just happen by accident. It’s nurtured, refined, and aligned with what being a DayMaker really means. Our DayMakers are already extraordinary people. Our goal is to foster growth and development in these already amazing individuals so they can shine even brighter. That’s why we gathered the team together for our va va voom workshop.

More than a training day

This wasn’t just a session about processes or policies. It was about people – our people – and how we can elevate the way we work, connect and deliver.

Led by Joanne Witzer, Learning & Development Officer at Churchill Group, the workshop gave our team the space to:

• Share their strengths and vulnerabilities
• Celebrate where we thrive
• Identify where we could grow
• Explore ways to connect with one another across different locations

The collaborative activities of the day gave the senior team the opportunity to see some of our DayMakers in action, identify how they can support them further, and give them more opportunities to shine.

What became crystal clear? Our DayMakers care. They care about their clients. They care about the people they interact with but most of all, they care about each other.

The big questions of the day

Throughout the day, we tackled three simple but powerful questions:

1. What are we currently doing well?
2. What could we change to be amazing?
3. What do we need to do to put the va va voom into what we do?

This gave the team a chance to work collaboratively and celebrate each other whilst also identifying opportunities, whether that’s in the day-to-day or looking at the bigger picture.

The team reflected on the following quote from Edward De Bono:

“We may have a perfectly adequate way of doing something, but that does not mean there cannot be a better way.”

This idea ran through various conversations throughout the day. Together, we explored how commitment, alignment, team effectiveness, passion, results and empowerment lead us to being a high performing team.

The team brainstormed creative ideas that could benefit our clients and discussed innovations that could bring even more connection to the workplace.

Change, but make it exciting

Change can be daunting. But when you’re part of that change – when your voice is heard, your ideas matter, and your contribution shapes the future – it’s exciting.

This workshop wasn’t just about finding ways to improve our service. It was about giving our team the opportunity to grow, develop and evolve as DayMakers. It was a reminder that our magic lies not just in what we do, but in how we do it – together.

Being a DayMaker isn’t just a role. It’s how you show up. And now, with a little extra va va voom, we’re ready to take it to the next level.

M&G plc was proud to host OnVerve’s energising DayMaker va va voom workshop at their 10FA head office. Laura Finlay, Head of Workplace Experience at M&G plc said:

“This was more than a training session, it was a meaningful investment in the people and culture that make DayMakers unique.

I was particularly impressed by the workshop’s focus on authentic connection, team effectiveness, and personal growth—values that are clearly being cultivated and embedded across the team.

The focus on energy, collaboration, and commitment to continuous improvement truly resonated with us at M&G. It’s inspiring to see the DayMakers being empowered to elevate every experience they create.

With a renewed sense of purpose and a little extra “va va voom,” we’re excited for what’s next!”

This year, On Verve turned four, and we celebrated by shining a spotlight on the real superheroes behind the scenes: our incredible DayMakers. The 2025 DreamMaker Awards brought everyone together to honour the unique superpowers that each DayMaker brings to work every day, from magnetic energy and intuitive service to calm leadership and culture-shaping creativity. Inspired by Marvel’s Fantastic Four, the event was a celebration of the strengths, passion, and resilience that fuel our team. We spoke to some of the winners about what their awards mean to them and the special qualities they bring to the role. Here’s a closer look at a few of their stories.

Claire Kershaw – Moment Mastery

Joining On Verve during a time of upheaval, Claire quickly became a grounding force. With her superpower of ‘Moment Mastery’, she brings out the best in others by being fully present. “It makes me feel extremely appreciated and seen,” and went on to say about her award “It confirms to me that my work is worthwhile, not only to me but to the people around me.”

Claire’s strength lies in how she transforms everyday interactions into something meaningful, noticing the unspoken cues, remembering what matters to someone, or simply giving space to be heard. “People often carry more than what they show,” she shared, “and when you take a moment to see them, it creates a ripple effect where they feel valued and capable of more than they realised.”

Hollie Hawkins – Mystic Foresight

Hollie is known for her ability to anticipate needs before they arise, a sixth sense that earned her the ‘Mystic Foresight’ award. Her calm confidence and proactive approach have become invaluable, especially during challenging periods.

“To me, Mystic Foresight is about being a step ahead,” she said. “I like to get to know people and what makes them happy, so I can make them smile before they even realise they needed it.”

And in true superhero spirit, Hollie even dreamed up a light-hearted origin story, involving a freak photocopier incident that gifted her with telepathy and emotional insight. “It’s definitely make-believe,” she laughed, “but I like the idea of turning an everyday moment into something magical.”

Selesha Palmer – Culture Crafter

With a vibrant blend of creativity and care, Selesha is the beating heart of her workplace. As this year’s ‘Culture Crafter’, she brings playfulness and productivity together to shape an inclusive, joyful environment. “This award symbolises recognition for the contributions I make, the small daily actions that build into bigger moments that people appreciate,” she said.

Whether she’s hosting thoughtful events or simply lifting morale on a Monday morning, Selesha makes culture feel like something you live, not just talk about. “Don’t be afraid to ask questions and shake up the energy of the workplace,” she advises. “Being friendly, firm and curious goes a long way.”

Carl Helmke – Mission Commander

When things get intense, Carl’s the one you want in charge. With his ‘Mission Commander’ mindset, he brings structure, calm, and clarity to high-pressure situations. “People look to you for guidance and a calm head,” Carl said. “Those traits are my superpower.”

For Carl, leadership is rooted in empathy, a strength shaped by personal loss that fuels his drive to support others through their own challenges. “You didn’t get to this position by accident,” he reminds those just starting, “Trust yourself.”

And while his ability to command a mission is clear, it’s his unwavering empathy that makes Carl’s leadership quietly powerful, the kind that transforms teams and turns chaos into cohesion.

Alice Neave – Unshakable Reliability

Reliable, positive, and always ready, Alice embodies ‘Unshakable Reliability’. Her colleagues know they can count on her, no matter the circumstance. “It truly means a lot to feel recognised and valued,” she said. “It reassures me that I’m doing my job well.”

Alice’s approach is simple but powerful: be yourself, stay consistent, and let your work speak for itself. A fun fact? She’s expecting a baby and somehow manages to keep delivering excellence while growing a tiny new DayMaker of her own.

Milja Emilia Takala – Empathy Vanguard

Calm under pressure and generous with her support, Milja leads with quiet strength and boundless compassion, a true ‘Empathy Vanguard’. When a team member struggled to meet expectations, she stepped in with a blend of coaching, kindness and determination that not only turned things around but helped raise £4,000 for a children’s charity in the process.

Her origin story, though fictional, feels grounded. Milja moved to London alone and threw herself into situations far outside her comfort zone, boardrooms, high-stakes meetings, slowly realising her shy nature wasn’t a weakness, but a superpower. “I didn’t lose my shyness,” she said, “I transformed it into a voice the world couldn’t ignore.”

She credits her manager, Gabbie, with challenging her to grow, and encourages others to lead with genuineness. “People see past it quicker than you think. Own your mistakes, stay organised, and lead with heart.”

Angel Jones – Perceptive Clairvoyance

Angel Jones brings a kind of intuition you can’t teach, an instinct for anticipating needs, tuning into people, and creating a seamless experience before anyone even realises they need it. Her award for ‘Perceptive Clairvoyance’ celebrates this rare ability to elevate every interaction with foresight and warmth.

“This award means so much to me!” Angel said. “I’m so touched by the thoughtfulness of it all, from the nominations to the prizes. It’s just so nice.” That deep sense of gratitude mirrors the same care and thoughtfulness she brings to her work every day.

Angel’s people-first mindset is at the heart of her approach: “I love people, so I naturally think about their wants and needs ahead of time and make sure to accommodate as and when I can.” Her colleagues see it daily, the way she reads the room, adapts with grace, and makes guests feel like they’ve been seen and understood.

She draws inspiration from those around her, especially one client: “I find Alex Mills’ ability to give his whole attention to whoever is speaking to him inspiring. I’d love that level of focus!”

The 2025 DreamMaker Awards weren’t just about trophies; they were a tribute to the unstoppable force behind On Verve’s success. Each DayMaker, from Michael’s magnetic energy to Milja’s compassionate leadership, contributes a spark that turns ordinary moments into extraordinary ones. Congratulations to all of our 2025 DreamMaker Award winners! As we look forward to the next chapter, these everyday superheroes remind us that it’s their unique superpowers, big and small, that make all the difference.

 

Ever wish you had a career satnav that could help you grow, build confidence, and nudge you in the right direction? That’s kind of what the Own Your Future development programme is like, minus the robotic voice and unexpected U-turns.

Designed to help colleagues step up, speak out, and feel ready for what’s next, the programme mixes practical tools, inspiring coaching, and a group of supportive colleagues who’ll cheer you on every step of the way. We caught up with Alice, who undertook the programme, and she shared her thoughts on the importance and impact it has had on her.

A desire to grow

Alice joined the programme after a conversation with her line manager about her career goals. A colleague had recommended it, and Alice liked the sound of learning something new, especially something that could help her prepare for bigger responsibilities.

“I wanted something that would push me,” she said. “Even though I’m a team leader, I was keen to understand what’s involved in stepping into a management role.”

From hesitant to confident

Handling conflict used to be something Alice would rather avoid. “I’d run away from uncomfortable conversations,” she admitted. But the course gave her a fresh mindset: tough chats come with the territory in leadership, and they don’t have to be scary.

At first, Alice kept quiet in group sessions, preferring to observe. “But by the end,” she said, “I was the one jumping in first!”

She even tackled something she once found terrifying, presenting to a room. “Before, I would’ve done anything to avoid it. Now, it feels like a real achievement.”

Skills that stick

Some lessons made a big impact, including DISC personality profiling. “I use it constantly, at work, at home, everywhere,” Alice said. “You start to notice how different people tick. And when you tailor your approach, you get so much more from the conversation.”

She also gave a shout-out to her improved email game: “I used to know what I wanted to say, but couldn’t write it clearly. Now, it’s become second nature.”

A supportive environment

What made the programme special? The people. “We came from all over Churchill, in all sorts of roles,” Alice said. “But no one ever made anyone else feel ‘less than.’ We were all in it together.”

Those connections didn’t end with the final session; they still support each other on LinkedIn and beyond.

Guidance that makes a difference

Alice credits a lot of her growth to the dynamic duo leading the course. “Ben came into every session full of energy, ready to lift the room. Mike, during the coaching sessions, made you feel heard and helped you reach your own conclusions. They were a dream team.”

Advice for others

Alice’s message to anyone considering the programme? “Do it. Seriously. You’ll go in thinking it’s just another course, and you’ll come out a different person. It’s helped me grow at work and in life.”

Thanks to the Own Your Future programme, Alice discovered how to step up, speak out and think ahead, and she’s ready for whatever comes next.

 

We’re over the moon for our DayMaker, Lauren Suddards, who has been named Receptionist of the Year at the Corporate Receptionist of the Year (CROTY) Awards 2025.

Lauren is part of our guest services team at 3 Hardman Square in Manchester and emerged victorious from the shortlist of 12, thanks to her ability to blend professionalism with personality. From putting nervous visitors at ease with reassuring gestures, to driving community spirit through charity events, her approach is a masterclass in how to keep the workplace human.

The judges had plenty warm words for Lauren, including “You’re a pro – born to make a difference to the lives of the people who have the fortune to cross your path” and “What a wonderful ambassador for the guest services sector you will be.”

This is a fantastic achievement for Lauren which reinforces our belief that real impact comes from personal connection. In a world of checklists and automation, it’s the small, human touches – a remembered name, a warm welcome, or simply a smile – that shape exceptional guest experiences.

Reflecting on the win, Lauren said: “Winning this award means the world to me. What I love most about my role is the chance to make a difference to someone’s day, just by being thoughtful and present. At On Verve, we talk a lot about bringing positive energy to everything we do, and I really believe it’s those personal touches that make the biggest impact.”

Cheryl-Anne Cooper, our Chief DayMaker, said: “We’re absolutely thrilled for Lauren. Her win is a testament to the values we champion at On Verve – that genuine, personal service is at the heart of a great workplace experience. Lauren embodies what it means to keep things human, taking time to connect with everyone she meets and creating moments that matter. We couldn’t be prouder to have her on our team.”

Congratulations Lauren, we are so proud of you and everything you represent.

This year, On Verve turned four, and we knew we had to celebrate in a way that truly honoured the heart of our business: our brilliant DayMakers. On the 11^th of June, we transformed Karma Sanctum in Soho into a superhero HQ for a night of capes, cheers, and celebration.

Inspired by Marvel’s Fantastic Four, we hosted our DreamMaker Awards, a superpower-themed evening dedicated to recognising the everyday heroes who bring their unique strengths to work, day in and day out. These weren’t your typical awards. From magnetic energy and intuitive service to calm leadership and culture-shaping creativity, each winner embodied the spirit that makes On Verve so special.

With clients, colleagues, and our DayMaker team all in the room, we celebrated the talent, resilience, and passion that drive everything we do. The 2025 DreamMaker Awards weren’t just a celebration; they were a tribute to the unstoppable force behind On Verve’s success.

Among this year’s winners were DayMakers who make the impossible look easy and the everyday feel extraordinary. From Michael’s magnetic energy and Angel’s intuitive service to Milja’s compassionate leadership and Carl’s calm command in high-pressure moments, each DayMaker adds a unique spark to the mix. Whether it’s Selesha crafting culture with joyful creativity, Charmaine leading with quiet strength, or Natalie lighting up the room with connection, these are the heroes who turn ordinary moments into unforgettable ones. And this blog is a celebration of them, their stories, and the superpowers that make them, quite simply, brilliant.

Our 2025 DreamMaker Award winners…

• Magnetic Momentum – Michael Christofi
  • In less than a year, Michael has become a force to be reckoned with. His infectious energy, tireless work ethic, and quick wit make him the kind of person who can turn a gloomy Monday into a team-wide pick-me-up. Whether he’s lifting moods or stepping up to new challenges, Michael brings hustle, humour, and heart to everything he does
• Perceptive Clairvoyance – Angel Jones
  • Angel has a sixth sense for service. With her guest-first mindset and unspoken attention to detail, she sees around corners and anticipates needs before they’re even voiced. Her thoughtful touch turns everyday welcomes into memorable moments, she’s not just present, she’s proactive
• Client Care Crusader – Georgie Angell
  • Georgie played a key role in one of our biggest transitions, leading with warmth, calm, and creativity. During the move to the new Reading site, she made sure every person felt seen and supported, all while navigating endless moving parts with ease and positivity
• Empathy Vanguard – Milja Emilia Takala
  • Milja leads with deep empathy and purposeful action. Her nurturing approach to mentoring and team development has not only helped others grow but has created a ripple effect of confidence, capability, and community. She’s proof that kindness is a powerful leadership tool
• Culture Crafter – Selesha Palmer
  • From surprise celebrations to uplifting everyday moments, Selesha brings joy, inclusivity, and creativity into everything she touches. Whether she’s organising a themed day or simply offering a helping hand, she is the heartbeat of a vibrant, supportive workplace culture
• Resilient Elegance – Charmaine Perch
  • Charmaine is grace under pressure. Whether managing a complex locker audit solo or quietly keeping everything running behind the scenes, she delivers with calm, control, and commitment. Her reliability and poise make her an unsung hero, until now
• Effortless Executor – Elisa Mancarella
  • Elisa has a knack for making even the most complex challenges look simple. With her calm leadership and laser-sharp focus, she consistently elevates operations and guides her team with clarity and confidence. She doesn’t just get things done, she makes it look easy
• Mission Commander – Carl Helmke
  • Carl is the kind of leader you want when the unexpected hits. Unflappable and proactive, he brings calm and clarity to even the most high-pressure situations. From emergency responses to everyday support, his visible leadership provides structure and strength to his entire team
• Unshakable Reliability – Alice Neave
  • Alice is a rock. Always ready, always cheerful, and always dependable, she’s the person colleagues trust without question. Her quiet consistency and no-fuss attitude keep the wheels turning, and her integrity sets a gold standard for reliability
• Universal Connector – Natalie Seville
  • Whether she’s welcoming a guest or chatting with a colleague, Natalie lights up every space she’s in. Her warmth is contagious, and her genuine nature leaves people feeling seen, heard, and valued. She creates ripples of positivity everywhere she goes
• Mystic Foresight – Hollie Hawkins
  • Hollie brings a calm, forward-thinking approach to her role, often stepping up during high-pressure periods without missing a beat. Her proactive support and thoughtful leadership make her a go-to presence, setting the tone with poise and professionalism
• Pre-emptive Insight – Natalie Moorehouse
  • Natalie is the definition of a quiet powerhouse. Through her ability to train, support, and elevate others, she ensures consistency and excellence across every site she touches. She empowers people to succeed and leaves behind a legacy of knowledge and care
• Energy Infusion – Daniela Antoinette
  • Daniela is pure, unfiltered positivity. Whether she’s on the phone, managing a moment of chaos, or making a guest feel like royalty, she brings spirit, warmth, and laughter to every interaction. Her standing ovation at the staff conference said it all.
• Moment Mastery – Claire Kershaw
  • Claire knows that small moments make the biggest impact. Joining during a tricky time, she quickly became a calm, grounding force. Her presence lifts others, and her ability to make people feel truly seen is a gift to everyone she works with

 

Every DayMaker brings something exceptional, whether it’s infectious positivity, intuitive service, unshakable calm, or the kind of empathy that quietly transforms a team. The DreamMaker Awards aren’t just about applause and accolades; they’re about shining a light on the people who show up every day and make magic happen, often quietly, always brilliantly.

Keep an eye out for our upcoming blog series spotlighting each winner’s superpowers and stories in more detail.

Looking ahead

As we step into our fifth year (and beyond), we’re more inspired than ever to keep celebrating what makes On Verve special: our people. We’ll continue to grow, adapt, and sparkle with the same energy and heart that’s brought us this far. And of course, we’ll keep handing out capes to the everyday superheroes who deserve them.

 

 

Every year on the second Wednesday in May, while the world celebrates National Receptionist Day, we at On Verve take it a step further. We’ve made it our own, and we call it DayMaker Day.

Why? Because we believe the magic of the workplace doesn’t come from job titles, it comes from people. And we want to celebrate all the people who show up with empathy, energy and that unique ability to make someone’s day, every single day.

Not just receptionists (though we love them too)

DayMakers are the heart of our guest services, and they wear many hats. Some are receptionists. Others are porters, community hosts, workplace assistants, or operations support. Some work front-of-house with big, bold smiles. Others work quietly behind the scenes, making everything flow.

But regardless of where they are or what they’re called, they share one thing: they make things better for colleagues, visitors, clients and the culture as a whole. DayMaker Day is our annual reminder to stop, look around, and appreciate the people who make it all feel human.

The power of the human touch

We live in a world that’s increasingly automated, fast-paced and efficiency-obsessed. And while tech can do a lot, it can’t replace the value of someone who truly sees you. That’s what our DayMakers do best. They don’t just help, they connect. They’re not just task-doers, they’re mood-lifters, vibe-setters and community creators. They’re the ones who remember your name, notice when you’re off, and create moments that matter. It’s not just service. It’s soul. And it’s felt.

A tradition born from recognition

At On Verve, we’re not big on doing things the way they’ve always been done. That’s why we created DayMaker Day, an annual tradition rooted in appreciation, recognition and joy.

As the guest services industry evolves, so do the titles, from “receptionist” to “workplace experience co-ordinator” to “community host”. But what hasn’t changed is the impact these roles have.

So, each year, DayMaker Day is our way of saying: No matter your title, your desk, or your daily to-do list, if you bring positive energy, human connection and purpose to what you do… you’re a DayMaker. And we celebrate you.

How we celebrate and how you can too

Every year, we mark DayMaker Day with a heartfelt thank you, handwritten cards, maybe even a cupcake or two. Our DayMaker of the month tradition runs strong, but today’s the day we shine the spotlight a little wider.

Want to join us? Here’s how:

• Thank the person who made your morning better
• Share a story using #DayMakerDay
• Bring your team together for a mini celebration.
• Reflect on what “human touch” means in your own workplace

The DayMaker spirit lives on

DayMaker Day isn’t just a one-off. It’s part of who we are. It’s a reflection of the values we live year-round, and a reminder that kindness, care and connection never go out of style. So, here’s to our DayMakers, today, tomorrow, and every second Wednesday in May to come.

Happy DayMaker Day! You make work more than just a place to be, you make it a place to belong.

This month, On Verve turns four, and what a journey it’s been! From bold beginnings to building a culture powered by trailblazing, passion and creativity, we’re taking a moment to celebrate how far we’ve come and what’s coming next.

Over the past four years, On Verve has grown not just in size, but in spirit. We’ve continued to evolve while staying true to our core mission: DayMaking. It’s been a journey fuelled by the incredible people who show up every day with energy, ideas, and heart. Whether solving problems, lifting spirits up, or bringing joy to our clients, our team has shown time and again what it means to be exceptional.

As we step into our fifth year, we’re swapping cake for capes. Our annual employee recognition and awards event in June will spotlight the real superheroes of On Verve, our people, with a theme inspired by Marvel’s Fantastic Four. Why? Because just like those iconic characters, every one of our team members brings their own unique superpower to work. From innovation and resilience to teamwork and unstoppable positivity, this year’s celebration will shine a light on the qualities that make On Verve special.

Each year, we’ve marked our birthday with a celebration themed to reflect that chapter of our story. Here’s a look back at how far we’ve come.

1st birthday – you’re the one that we want

It’s hard to believe how far we’ve come since our very first birthday celebration in 2022. That night at The Lucky Club was more than just a party; it was a heartfelt thank you to our team, our clients, and everyone who has supported On Verve from day one.

We came together for the first time to celebrate a year of DayMakers, share our gratitude, and announce our first social impact project. It was also the debut of our DreamMaker Awards, a moment to spotlight those who bring extraordinary energy to the workplace.

Our longest-standing DayMaker, Fara Painter, who was there for our first party, said:

“Four years ago, at our first birthday, there were more prospects than DayMakers, and we felt like strangers in a room full of hope. But the support from the wider Churchill team made it unforgettable. Today, we celebrate with more clients and DayMakers than ever before, and each year the parties grow, just like our sense of family. What began as potential has become something powerful, personal, and full of purpose.”

2nd birthday – it takes two

Our second birthday was all about twos, two years of building, learning, and growing. Hosted at Sticky Mango in 2023, the theme reflected everything it takes to create a meaningful business: two sides to every story, two partners to build a relationship, and two years to shape an amazing team of DayMakers.

We came together with our clients, supporters, and team to toast the partnerships that made it all possible. There were awards, drinks, and plenty of appreciation for the people who bring the DayMaker dream to life every day. It wasn’t just a milestone, it was a moment to reaffirm that this is only the beginning.

3rd birthday – the power of three

By our third birthday, the energy was electric. With 100 supercharged DayMakers lighting up workplaces across the country, we embraced the power of three: three years of growth, gratitude, and making a real difference.

Held at Mr Fogg’s House of Botanicals, our 2024 event celebrated not only the strength of our team but also the powerful partnerships that fuel our work. We presented our annual DreamMaker Awards, recognising standout contributions, and raised funds for a charity close to our hearts. It was a night of purpose, pride, and positivity, a reflection of how far we’d come and the brighter future we’re building together.

Looking back on last year’s party, Gabbie Lapompe, Operations Director, said:

“The 3rd Birthday event was my first time seeing the full DayMaker energy come to life in one room. While I had already built strong relationships with both clients and fellow DayMakers, this was the moment it all truly clicked. It was incredible to see professionals from different industries connected by a genuine appreciation for exceptional, personality-driven service. It marked a real turning point in how I saw the impact of what we do. A great celebration of our team, our clients, and the shared values that bring us together. I can’t wait to do it again this year!”

4th birthday – the fantastic four

Which brings us to now. Four years in, and we’re embracing our inner superheroes. This year’s theme? The Fantastic Four. Because every person at On Verve brings their own magic, from world-class problem solving to unwavering positivity (and the occasional mind-reading ability when it comes to client needs). In June, we’ll be celebrating our people in true comic-book style, spotlighting the unsung heroes behind the DayMaker magic. As always, our clients are a vital part of the celebration. From nominating team members to joining us at the event, their voice helps shape this story, and we wouldn’t be here without them.

We’re also excited to welcome a new hero to the squad, our brand new Chief DayMaker, Cheryl-Anne Cooper! Known to most as Cher, she’s joined us from Churchill, where she was National Operations Director, and she brings with her a powerhouse mix of energy, expertise and experience. We’re thrilled to have her on board, helping to steer the DayMaker ship into its next chapter. Cher said:

“I still can’t believe I’ve been given the chance to take on what I consider my dream job! There’s nothing more rewarding than brightening someone’s day and seeing smiles all around. I absolutely love working with people, and knowing that we’re bringing energy and passion into others’ daily work lives means everything to me. My motto is #sharingiscaring, so I’m genuinely excited to start this journey alongside such an amazing team.”

What’s next?

We’re proud of the past four years, but we’re even more excited about what’s next. As we prepare for our June celebration, May is all about reflection, appreciation, and anticipation. We’ll be sharing stories, memories, and superhero spotlights throughout the month, so keep an eye out as we count down to an unforgettable evening. Thanks for being on this journey with us. We’ve only just begun.