Rising Stars 2025 Announced

NIHF has once again teamed up with Ulster Bank to run an exciting competition aimed at discovering the ‘Rising Stars’ within the hotel sector of Northern Ireland.

The Rising Stars awards aim to recognise and celebrate young, emerging talent who are making significant contributions to the hotel and hospitality industry.

The competition is a fantastic platform to showcase talented personnel, reward those who contribute significantly to the hotel sector’s success and highlight the career potential within the industry.

The Rising Stars Awards, supported by Ulster Bank, will be presented as part of Hospitality Exchange 2025 at a lunch hosted by the renowned broadcaster Pamela Ballantine. This special luncheon will take place at the Crowne Plaza Belfast on Tuesday, 14th October 2025.

This year’s Rising Stars will also hear from Alex Polizzi, renowned hotelier and TV presenter on life as the Hotel Inspector and beyond.

The Rising Stars were nominated by their businesses. Each entry was assessed by multiple independent judges to arrive at the 15 stars awarded. The nominee will receive a complimentary ticket to The Leadership Lunch.

The Rising Stars in alphabetical company order:

Ronan Sharkey, Business Development Executive, Andras Hotels
Robyn McGarrigle, Hotel Reception & Revenue Supervisor, Bishop’s Gate Hotel
Christopher Patterson, Events Manager, Bullitt
Shannon Coleman, Guest Experience Manager, Clayton Hotel Belfast
Kai Twells, Assistant Food and Beverage Manager, Everglades Hotel
Daniel Rice, Food and Beverage Supervisor, Hillyard House Hotel
Andrew Keane, Assistant Front Office Manager, Ibis Belfast City Centre
Emma Davis, HR Executive, Maldron Hotel Belfast City
Kamile Siauciunaite, Food & Beverage Supervisor, Maldron Hotel Belfast International Airport
Skye Cook, Duty Manager, Millbrook Lodge Hotel
Dara Martin, Marketing Executive, The Harbourview Hotel
Kirill Fennelly, Great Room Supervisor, The Merchant Hotel
Daria Chyclak, Assistant Food and Beverage Manager, voco, Belfast
Jacinta McGovern, Duty Manager, Westville Hotel
Samantha Wylie, Receptionist, White Horse Hotel