ALANA Quigley, restaurant manager at Gleneagles, has been named as the Institute of Hospitality’s Restaurant Manager of the Year after a gruelling day-long contest in London.
Alana scooped the award after a full day of tasks and interviews and has now won a 12-month membership to the Institute, a tailored professional development programme, invitations to various events throughout the year and a number of stays and dining experiences at hotels in London, Wales and Scotland from judges and sponsors.
She was one of 16 finalists competing on the day.
“I am absolutely ecstatic,” said Alana.
“In fact, that doesn’t even begin to cover it. It has been an amazing journey supported by the people I work with, and I’ve had such an amazing day, thanks to the judges and candidates alike; they have all been incredible. I am speechless.”
Robert Richardson of the Institute of Hospitality said all 16 finalists ‘definitely raised the bar’.
“All the judges were highly impressed with their performance throughout the day in all the tasks, but Alana was a clear choice, and we are delighted she now takes her place as our 16th RMOY winner.
“The talent, passion, and dedication shown by all our finalists are a true testament to the vibrancy and future of the hospitality industry.
“We look forward to seeing the continued success of our winners as they help us continue to inspire the next generation of hospitality leaders.”
And Alana encouraged other hospitality professionals to enter the competition next year.
She said: “Just do it. Just go for it. Put yourself forward and go outside your comfort zone. Being part of the selected 16 semi-finalists was an incredible journey in itself. The quality of the people and the supportive experience are probably the main things I will get out of my entire journey here today. Everyone should do it just to connect with like-minded people and meet people that are the best, true versions of themselves.”
