Rising Stars Announced

The Northern Ireland Hotels Federation is delighted to announce the lucky recipients of a Rising Star Award for 2022.

The winners were nominated by hotels and accommodation providers who recognise these individuals career progression to date, their contribution to each business and their future career trajectory.

Stephen Meldrum, President of Northern Ireland Hotels Federation, said: “Attracting talented people is an integral part of the hotel’s sector success and I think we have all recognised the growing importance of their contribution. This is an industry with incredible opportunities and one where you can progress through the ranks, gaining experience and qualifications along the way. 

“It is vital that we highlight this along with the diversity of roles, transferable skills, and a well renumerated career path. Without skilled and dedicated staff, we would struggle to deliver a great customer experience and engage with guests.”

He added: “The Federation has rebranded its suite of rewards under the Key Awards umbrella, with each category recognising and rewarding the excellent people we employ. People are without doubt the key to our success and the new rising star category seeks to highlight those who have shown dedication to date and who have much to contribute to the future.

“The ten stars are representative of the diversity of opportunities available, covering everything from reception to housekeeping, and digital management. There was an exceptionally high standard and I congratulate all those who have been recognised as a rising star. I look forward to acknowledging their achievement at a special lunch hosted by Pamela Ballantine on Tuesday 11th October in the Crowne Plaza Belfast as part of the 23rd Hospitality Exchange.

The Rising Stars were nominated by their businesses. Each nomination was assessed by three independent judges to arrive at the ten stars awarded. The nominee and their nominator will each receive a complimentary ticket to the Award’s Lunch at Hospitality Exchange on 11th October.

The Rising Stars in alphabetical company order:

1. David McMullan, Food & Beverage Manager, Best Western Plus White Horse Hotel, Derry-Londonderry
2. Katie Beaton, Assistant Conference & Banqueting Manager, Bishop’s Gate Hotel, Derry-Londonderry
3. Pedro Silva, Restaurant Manager, Bullitt Hotel, Belfast
4. Seamus Morgan, Bar Manager, Canal Court Hotel, Newry
5. Aaron Quigley, Bar Manager, Da Vinci’s Hotel, Derry-Londonderry
6. Yasmine Peacock, Front Office Shift Leader, Fitzwilliam Hotel, Belfast
7. Helen Carton, Supervisor, Fullerton Arms, Ballintoy
8. Megan Wright, Group Revenue Manager, Galgorm Collection, Ballymena
9. Matthew McRoberts, Digital Marketing Manager, Hastings Hotel Group
10. Jordan Sloan, Assistant Bar Manager, Titanic Hotel, Belfast