Irish Hotels Federation Celebrates Excellence at Quality Employer Awards

More than 70 hotels from around Ireland gathered earlier this week for the inaugural Quality Employer Awards, hosted by the Irish Hotels Federation (IHF) at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Athlone. This event aimed to honour hotel teams that have shown exceptional commitment to human resource excellence and the development of their staff through the IHF’s Quality Employer Programme.

The highest accolade, the Exceptional People Management Award, was awarded jointly to Cork International Hotel and The Metropole Hotel. Both establishments were recognised for their outstanding employment practices, which reflect a deep commitment to employee wellbeing and professional development.

IHF President Michael Magner expressed his admiration for the winning hotels, stating, “Warmest congratulations to Cork International Hotel and The Metropole Hotel – both hotels exemplify all the hallmarks of a Quality Employer.” He praised the leadership of General Managers Eoghan Murphy and Louise McNamara, noting their dedication to creating supportive work environments that allow employees to thrive.

Recognising Best-in-Class Hotels

In addition to the top award, twelve hotels were celebrated as ‘Best-in-Class’ across three distinct categories. The winners included:

– **Best in Class Awards – Certified Level:**
– Clanard Court Hotel, Kildare
– Ballygarry Estate Hotel & Spa, Kerry
– Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Cork
– Conrad Dublin

– **Best in Class Awards – Advanced Level:**
– Kilkea Castle Hotel & Golf Resort, Kildare
– Dromoland Castle, Clare
– Inn at Dromoland, Clare
– Clayton Hotel Cardiff Lane, Dublin

– **Best in Class Awards – Expert Level:**
– Ballykealey House, Carlow
– Muckross Park Hotel & Spa, Kerry
– Midlands Park Hotel, Laois
– Slieve Russell Hotel, Cavan

The Chair of the awards judging panel, Dr Donagh Davern from Munster Technological University (MTU), noted the importance of a people-centric approach in the industry. He highlighted the finalists’ commitment to employee onboarding, engagement, and wellbeing. “The increase in supports for both the physical and mental health and wellbeing of employees was particularly noteworthy,” he commented.

The Path to Excellence in Hospitality

Following the award ceremony, Magner congratulated all 70 hotels that achieved certification as IHF Quality Employers. He remarked, “It is an honour to be among so many inspiring HR leaders celebrating the very best of people development across our hotels and guesthouse sector.”

He emphasised the vital role that people play in the hospitality industry, stating, “Our people are the beating heart of our industry.” With more than 67,000 livelihoods directly supported by hotels and guesthouses in Ireland, along with an additional 270,000 in the broader tourism sector, the impact of empowered employees cannot be overstated.

The IHF’s Quality Employer Programme equips member hotels and guesthouses with the necessary tools to enhance their HR practices and foster employee development. Certification under this programme signifies a commitment to operating as a Quality Employer, which helps to attract and retain talent in the competitive hospitality landscape. For more information, visit www.qualityemployer.ie.