- What was your first job?
My first job was as a waiter/bar man in the Mellon Country Inn, just outside Omagh.
- What qualifications do you have?
After gaining three A-levels at Omagh Academy, I studied for a degree in hospitality management at Ulster University. I studied further at UU, securing a PGCFE, PGCHEP and a masters in education.
- What do you attribute your success to?
A combination of passion, persistence, and a genuine commitment to continuous learning. The support from my colleagues, my students, and the wider hospitality community has also played a significant role, enabling me to grow both personally and professionally. Our recent accolade of being recognised as number one for hospitality event management and tourism in The Guardian University Guide 2025 reflects this completely.
- How would you describe yourself to someone who had never met you?
Someone who is passionate about the hospitality industry, always eager to share knowledge and inspire others. I’m approachable, driven by a love for learning, and dedicated to helping others succeed.
- Who do you look up to in business?
Danny Meyer, a hospitality entrepreneur, renowned for his commitment to exceptional service and cultivating strong relationships – qualities that resonate with my own approach to hospitality management.
- How do you get the best out of people who work for you?
I like to focus on creating a supportive and motivating environment, recognising achievements and showing a genuine care for wellbeing through trust and collaboration.
- If you could change one thing about doing business in Northern Ireland, what would it be?
By enhancing partnerships between educational institutions and the hospitality industry, creating more streamlined pathways for students and workers to enter the sector, businesses would have a more reliable and qualified workforce. This could address staffing shortages and support the growth and sustainability of the hospitality industry.
- What website or app could you not do without?
WhatsApp – so many people to keep in contact with every day.
- What was the last book you read?
Tribes, We Need You to Lead Us. It was recommended by a colleague. It’s a great read and very appropriate right now!
- Tell us something interesting about yourself
Whilst on placement in Liverpool, I worked along with a band who wrote a song about me – they went on to be quite popular – The Coral… I won’t tell you the song, you’ll have to figure it out.
- What’s your greatest passion outside work and family?
It has to be getting to the best beach in Donegal, Rossnowlagh, and really zoning out. It’s a real shame it’s so far away.
