Fourteen emerging talents from Northern Ireland’s hotel sector have been recognised in the 2026 Rising Stars Awards, an initiative organised by the Northern Ireland Hotels Federation in partnership with Alkimii and Excel Recruitment.

The awards celebrate young professionals making a significant contribution to the hospitality industry, highlighting the range of career opportunities available across the sector.

This year’s recipients represent hotels throughout Northern Ireland, with roles spanning hotel management, food and beverage, culinary operations, marketing, sales and guest services.

The 14 winners were selected following nominations from their employers, with each entry assessed by multiple independent judges.

The Rising Stars Awards formed part of Hospitality Exchange 2026, with recipients invited to a special Leadership Lunch at the Crowne Plaza Belfast on Tuesday, October 13.

The event was hosted by broadcaster Pamela Ballantine and featured Spencer Metzger, one of the UK’s leading emerging culinary talents.

Northern Ireland Rising Stars 2026

The 14 award recipients were:

• Ria Mehta – Culture & Talent Officer, Andras Hotels
• Emma Hutton – Restaurant Manager, Bishop’s Gate Hotel
• Eoin Beattie – F&B Manager, Clayton Hotel Belfast
• Megan Best – Sales and Reservations Executive, Fitzwilliam Hotel
• Jordyn Carson – Groups Supervisor, Hampton by Hilton Belfast City Centre
• Conor McColgan – Front Office Supervisor, Hilton Belfast
• Sebastian Timlin – Student Chef, Killyhevlin Lakeside Hotel and Lodges
• Cameron Greaney – Deputy General Manager, Leonardo Belfast
• Shelby Finlay – Food and Beverage Manager, Malmaison Hotel Belfast
• Judith Cairns – Senior Sous Chef, Millbrook Lodge Hotel
• Bailey Barker – Food and Beverage Supervisor, Moxy Belfast City
• Ellie Armstrong – Supervisor, Great Room Restaurant, The Merchant Hotel
• Adam Workman – Bar Manager, Titanic Hotel Belfast
• Erin Higgins – Head of Marketing, Westville Hotel

The Rising Stars initiative aims to recognise the achievements of younger employees while encouraging career development and highlighting the opportunities for progression within Northern Ireland’s hotel industry.

By celebrating talent across a variety of departments, the awards also underline the importance of attracting, developing and retaining skilled professionals to support the future growth of the hospitality sector.

featured, Rising Stars Awards

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