A manager at an island supermarket chain has been listed as a finalist in the international category of a US-based awards programme.

Tahjae Welch, who works at The Paget MarketPlace, is in the running for the FMI 2025 Store Manager Awards.

The MarketPlace said: “This significant international recognition places Tahjae among the top store managers globally, a testament to his exceptional leadership, resilience, innovative approach and dedication to both The MarketPlace and our community.

“In addition to being a finalist for the overall Store Manager Award, Tahjae is also a candidate for the FMI People’s Choice Award, an honour determined by public vote.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for the Bermudian public to directly support one of our own inspiring leaders.”

It described FMI — The Food Industry Association as “an influential US-based organisation dedicated to advancing a safer, healthier and more efficient food supply for consumers”.

The MarketPlace added: “Their annual awards are highly regarded, recognising individuals and companies that demonstrate excellence and innovation in food retail operations worldwide.

“The MarketPlace is immensely proud of Tahjae’s achievements and calls upon the public to help him win the FMI People’s Choice Award.”

Voting is open until 11.59pm EST on Tuesday [12.59am on Wednesday in Bermuda].

To cast a vote, visit fmi.org/store-manager-awards/peoples-pick-award, find Mr Welch’s profile and click on it, then scroll to the bottom of the page and click on the green "Submit" button.

The page should show that the vote was accepted by showing a progress bar at 100 per cent.

The MarketPlace said that Mr Welch began his career at the company in 2016 as a merchandiser and cashier at the Dollar Store straight from high school.

It added: “His dedication saw him quickly progress through roles such as grocery manager, second assistant store manager and assistant store manager.

“In 2024, Tahjae made history by becoming The MarketPlace's youngest-ever store manager, taking the helm at The Paget MarketPlace — his own neighbourhood store.

“A graduate of the company's ‘Pathways to Leadership’ programme, Tahjae has consistently demonstrated exceptional operational expertise.

“Under his guidance, The Paget MarketPlace has seen sales grow over the past year.”

Seth Stutzman, the company’s president, added: “Tahjae personifies the leadership and dedication we foster at The MarketPlace.

“His ability to lead his team at Paget MarketPlace to such success, culminating in this international recognition, is a source of immense pride for our entire organisation.”

Mr Stutzman said: “He is a true role model, not only within our company but for any young Bermudian showing that dedication and hard work can lead to outstanding achievements."

Patrick Singleton, the head of strategy at The MarketPlace and Tahjae’s nominator added: “Tahjae is a shining example of home-grown talent and leadership excellence at The MarketPlace.

“His journey is an inspiration and his impact on store operations, customer satisfaction and team morale is undeniable, particularly in implementing store improvements and fostering a positive work environment.”

The MarketPlace said that Mr Welch played a key role in the introduction of “innovative in-store programmes, such as expanding the international food section to cater to Bermuda's diverse communities”.

It added: “Tahjae is deeply involved in the community and participates in events like The MarketPlace Christmas Parade, encourages staff volunteerism and is active with his Hamilton Parish Football Club.”