Alana Quigley from Gleneagles Hotel has beaten off 15 other finalists to win the title of Institute of Hospitality Restaurant Manager of the Year 2025. Joshua Oliver Ndirmbita, Restaurant Manager at Estelle Manor, Oxfordshire was runner-up
The announcement came after a day of tasks and interviews with the winners being revealed in front of a packed room of hospitality professionals, judges, family members and industry leaders at Hotel Café Royal, London at the end of last week.
Alana said, “I am absolutely ecstatic. 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.”
Asked what advice she would give hospitality professionals who may be considering entering next year, Alana 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.”
Alana wins a number of prizes from the Institute of Hospitality to help support her career, including 12 months’ membership, a tailored professional development programme, and invitations to the Institute’s top events throughout the year. Plus, luxurious stays and dining experiences at hotels in London, Wales, and Scotland, thanks to the judges and sponsors.
IoH CEO Robert Richardson FIH MI said, “All 16 finalists definitely raised the bar again this year. 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.”
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