The QHotels Collection Continues to place people at its core, and announces the individuals and teams which have contributed significantly to the success of the company over the past 12 months.
You can also find out more about the following: ‘QYou Awards’ celebrate outstanding achievements by recognising the company’s shining stars—those who go the extra mile and demonstrate true passion for hospitality. These individuals and teams were nominated for their game-changing achievements, innovations and trailblazing contributions by their peers.
Richard Moore, the Group Chief Executive Officer of The QHotels Collection opened the awards ceremony, which was held at Chesford Grange Hotel, Warwickshire, last week. Moore, who addressed more than 250 employees representing 19 hotels, stressed the company’s strong financial situation and future growth plans.
In spite of the tough market conditions, we achieved record revenues for 2024 and increased profits. Also, we have seen significant improvements in our online reputation as well as customer reviews. I attribute this to the positive culture that we have. As a UK hotel group that is committed to innovation and continuous development, we now enter our next chapter on a solid foundation of commitment, stability and growth. After a successful year, we’re well-positioned for future growth by investing in our people.
Moore opened the night by saying: We are happy to recognize the outstanding performances of team members, who have been at the top their game and are role models.
Two new award categories were launched for 2025, including a ‘Hospitality with Heart This award is given to a team who has supported and championed ESG strategies within the company. The award recognises the contributions made by teams to their local communities, through fundraising and charity work as well as practical support.
The team from Norton Park Hotel, Spa & Manor House for their outstanding dedication to supporting Naomi House & Jacksplace, a charity providing vital care for seriously ill children, young adults, and their families. The team was recognized for its compassion and commitment to helping those in need. Over the last year, their fundraising efforts included a charity racing night and the creation a rose garden in order to raise awareness.
Mark Illingworth The second time he was awarded the General Manager of the year award, he received recognition for his success and strategic direction. The achievement given for continually increasing revenue year on year and maintaining an impressive control of margins and conversion for Oulton Hall Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort. His leadership also consistently tops league tables for reputation, health & safety, guest experience training and compliance, alongside a focus on team retention and development, and challenging the status quo to explore new opportunities.
Chesford Grange Hotel The Hotel of the year was the winner of the night. The team’s successes under General Manager were responsible for this. Nick Hughes. This transformation, which was driven by a motivated staff, commercial leadership and refurbishment, has led to an improvement in the reputation of the hotel, as well as exceptional feedback from guests and financial success.
The QYou Awards, along with this renewed focus on their people through strategic investments, enhanced recognition and development opportunities, signal a clear commitment by The QHotels Collection in order to build a culture and reputation which will ultimately drive profit and sustainable growth 2025 and beyond.
The success of our company is largely due to our people-first approach. This year, we have seen significant growth in a sector that is very difficult. Our apprenticeship academy is growing. We’ve stepped out of our comfort zones. Our ESG credentials are enhanced by the work that our teams do to support local communities. We treat our employees as guests within the company, and create a rewarding and supportive environment for them to flourish. In 2025 we are looking forward to investing more in our people initiatives. Seeing our vision become a reality and our employees grow is what drives our culture and profits. Claire Cregan, Director of Human Resources for the Group
In partnership with Umbrella Training, The QHotels Collection is committed to continuing and developing their apprenticeship program. This initiative will help them remain at the forefront of the industry. They aim to have over 200 more apprentices by the year 2025. The investment in training and developing new talent is a testament to the commitment of the company towards nurturing talent within hospitality.
As leaders in hospitality the group strives to create an organisation that its people can be proud of. This is done by creating a dynamic work environment, exciting opportunities for everyone and carving a prosperous future.
The QYou Awards was crafted as an extraordinary, all-encompassing Broadway musical-themed awards ceremony, wowing guests who attended, plus raising £2,000 for sector charity, Hospitality Action.
View the complete list of QYou Award Winners:
Team Member Of The Year (Behind The Scenes) – Craig Sackree, Ashford International Hotel & Spa
The Apprentice of the Year – Jenny Oglesby, The Telford Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort
Supervisor of the Year – Clare Tonkin, Oxford Belfry Hotel & Spa
Team Member of the year (Front of House). – Olivia Dickinson, Belton Woods Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort
Team Member of The Year (Central Support) – Sue Shepherd, IT
Team Member of the Year (Event Sales & Finance) – Rosie Midgley, Oulton Hall Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort
Team Member of the Year (Golf, Health Club & Spa) – Gaynor Davis, Crewe Hall Hotel & Spa
Manager of the year – Jane Hardingham, Dunton Hall Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort
Operations Manager of The Year – Jasmin Fennell, Forest Pines Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort
Hospitality with Heart – Norton Park Hotel, Spa & Manor House
General Managers of the Year – Mark Illingworth, Oulton Hall Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort
Hotel of the year – Chesford Grange Hotel
QHotels Collection
The QHotels Collection, formerly known as The QHotels Group in the UK, is a collection of 21 hotels, resorts and hotels, including DoubleTree, Delta, Marriott, and Accor. For more information, visit www.theqhotelscollection.co.uk
