Brussels, October 22, 2008  - Baker & McKenzie receptionist Bea Uvin in Brussels was named “Receptionist of the Year 2008” by human resource specialist Exselsia, a division of Tempo-Team.

The annual contest, in its third year, aims to recognize the importance of the clerical/office administration profession and to promote superior professional skills. This year, Exselsia received 220 nominations from managers and colleagues. Nominees are bilingual who have worked at least one year as a receptionist, and have worked part time with a contract of indeterminate duration. They also undergo a thorough selection process, which includes a telephone interview and an evaluation via anonymous visit.  Two winners are selected - one Dutch-speaking and the other French-speaking.  The winners receive various prizes including a car.

"We are very proud of Bea, said Koen Vanhaerents, co-managing partner of the Firm’s Belgian office. "We want to offer the best service to clients, starting from the very first contact at the reception desk and the phone. Bea has a ‘client-first’ mindset, excellent communication and language skills, as well as initiative."  François Gabriel, co-managing partner of Baker & McKenzie in Belgium, adds: "She is an enthusiastic, positive and warm person – all qualities which are greatly appreciated by our clients and lawyers. We are very happy to have Bea on board. She deserves this recognition."

Ms. Uvin has worked for Baker & McKenzie in Brussels for five years. Commenting on the recognition, Ms. Uvin said: “I am very honored to be named ‘Receptionist of the Year’.  This is a great job for me.  Baker & McKenzie provides a good mix of work-life balance.  For me, my job is the business card of the Firm: we are the first face, first contact and first impression of the organization to clients.”