Spotlight on Derrick Walker (Bar Manager): JI 30+ All Star

We got a chance to sit with one of our 30+ year All Stars, Derrick Walker, Jamaica Inn’s bar manager. Derrick, most commonly referred to at work as “Mr. Derrick” started with Jamaica Inn as a waiter in 1982 and affectionately recalls his time here at the Jamaica Inn as some of the best experiences of his life. We asked him a few questions.
Why did you decide to work for JI 30+ years ago?
I was 19 years old and had just left high school. I heard that Jamaica Inn was one of the best and I wanted to work with a good company so I decided to apply.
What was the thing that surprised you most about working for this company – the thing you were least expecting?
I have two things that surprised me the most. The staff tenure and the amount of repeat guests.
After 25 years of service, what do you value most about JI and your work?
The standard of service has never faltered.
What do you recall as being your most memorable moment in JI?
My most memorable moment was serving Princess Margaret. I was a waiter at the time and I served her white wine on the dinner terrace. Princess Margaret was polite and said my service was excellent, that was a great memory for me.
If you had one wish for JI in the future what would it be?
I wish for Jamaica Inn would keep improving and continue to stay on top.
What is your all-time favorite Jamaican song?
Don’t worry – Bob Marley