Rising Stars Announced

NIHF has once again teamed up with Ulster Bank to run an exciting competition aimed at discovering ‘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 2024 at a lunch, hosted by the renowned broadcaster Pamela Ballantine. This special luncheon will take place at the Crowne Plaza Belfast on Tuesday, 15th October 2024.

This year’s Rising Stars will also hear from Tanya Oxtoby, the Northern Ireland Women’s Football Manager, who will share her perspective on what makes a winning team. Her expertise in leadership and team dynamics will offer valuable lessons for all in attendance, drawing parallels between success in sports and success in hospitality.

The Rising Stars were nominated by their businesses. Each entry was assessed by independent judges to arrive at the 12 stars awarded. The nominee and their nominator will each receive a complimentary ticket to the Winning Ways Lunch.

The Rising Stars in alphabetical company order:

• Adam Jones, Head Chef, AC Hotel Belfast
• Matthew McCafferty, Assistant Bar Manager, Bishop’s Gate Hotel
• Shania Higgins, Restaurant Manager, City Hotel Derry
• Katelyn Leetch, Conference & Events Coordinator, Crowne Plaza Belfast
• Tyler Millar, Food & Beverage Supervisor, Elephant Rock Hotel
• Rebecca Gwynne, Asst Conference & Banqueting Manager, Europa Hotel
• Fionntan McLaughlin, Food Service Staff, Fitzwilliam Hotel
• Malachy McMurray, Receptionist & Trainee Manager, Hilton Belfast
• Shane Malone, Asst Conference & Banqueting Manager, Killeavy Castle Estate
• Tamara O’Hare, Wedding Coordinator, Millbrook Lodge Hotel
• Diane Magee, Asst Spa Manager, The Merchant Hotel
• Sophie Swift, Revenue Manager, Westville Hotel