Hudson Group operations manager Asimena Patsaros and sales associate Beimnet Kifle received the “Unsung Heroes” award from Philadelphia International Airport's (PHL) Employee Recognition Program. This award recognizes and honors employees who play crucial behind-the-scenes roles at PHL.
Patsaros serves multiple Hudson stores throughout the airport, bridging the gap between corporate strategy and frontline execution. She ensures consistent performance, operational excellence, and high customer satisfaction across all PHL locations, focusing on strategic leadership and team building. She has been managing stores for Hudson at PHL since 2014 and began her journey by training at Hudson’s North America main branch in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Since then, she has helped create and launch 10 specialty brand stores managed by Hudson, while continuing to oversee Hudson store operations today.
Kifle, who is also a student, has been working at PHL for almost three years. Her responsibilities as a sales associate include assisting customers, handling transactions, keeping the store organized, and ensuring travelers have a smooth and positive experience. During her time at PHL, Kifle has developed strong customer service skills while working in a fast-paced environment and connecting with travelers from around the world. “Customer service is a big part of my role, and I always aim to be helpful and welcoming,” Kifle expressed.
PHL passenger JJ Mang nominated Patsaros and Kifle for the “Unsung Heroes” award. “My daughter, who is mentally challenged, became lost and overwhelmed. Asimena remained calm, patient, and professional, comforting her and even singing to ease her anxiety, while leading her team. Beimnet quickly helped locate me and brought me back to my daughter, ensuring we were reunited. Her compassion, teamwork, and ability to handle such a stressful situation meant everything to me. I’m truly grateful for their kindness and support that day,” Mang said.
Patsaros values building connections and creating a positive work culture. “Everyone, regardless of their position, has a unique story to share. Establishing a positive work culture and taking care of our employees makes a significant difference in our overall success,” she said. Patsaros also finds fulfillment in developing a high-performing team and helping employees discover their strengths.
Kifle finds meaning in supporting passengers during important moments. In one instance, she assisted a passenger who had lost her wallet by staying with her, helping search for it, and ensuring she was okay once it was found. “At the end of the day, it feels rewarding knowing I’ve helped many different people.”
Patsaros’ co-workers describe her as a leader, mentor, and someone with strong, positive energy. She prioritizes customer needs and creating a meaningful workplace. “Take time to understand the people because they are the most valuable part of your business.”
Kifle’s co-workers find her to be reliable, hardworking, and someone they can truly count on. She strives to create a positive experience for every customer. “I want people to feel supported and valued.”
“I thank God for giving me strength, and my employer for allowing me to do what I love every day while creating memorable experiences for customers alongside my team. I’m especially grateful to my boss for helping me rediscover my voice and teaching me valuable lessons in advocacy and resilience. I’d also like to thank my team—Beimnet, Poly, Muhammed K, Rakib, Muntahin, Radia, Yeshi, Kenza, Arman, the Dunkin Crew, and everyone I may have missed—for their continued support and teamwork. Lastly, I’m grateful to Frank Musciano and Gaby Talafous for sharing their expertise and helping strengthen my leadership and management skills throughout the years,” Patsaros shared.
“I would like to thank my manager, Asimena, for being a great leader and mentor. She has supported me, guided me, and helped me grow both at work and in my personal development. I’m very grateful to be part of her team,” Kifle shared.
The PHL Employee Recognition Program was established by the airport’s Strategy Groups’ Guest Experience (GX) unit. Honorees are nominated by their peers and guests and are selected by the GX Council Steering Committee’s Stakeholder Engagement Committee. For more information about the program and to nominate an employee, click here.
