Acorn Awards 2024: Poppy Eyles, 24, front of house manager, the Nici

Age 24

Position Front of house manager, the Nici, Bournemouth

Nominator Victoria Rose, Victoria Rose PR

Poppy Eyles’s career progression in just two years has been exceptional. Her rise from part-time reservationist to front of house manager overseeing a team of 27 reflects her drive, talent and leadership potential. And her dual role as duty manager further underscores her willingness to take on responsibility.

Her ambition is a driving force that inspires and benefits not just herself but others in the hotel. After moving into her current role in May 2023, she designed a new performance review template that celebrates individual successes and achieving milestones, encouraging participation and positive reinforcement. She also created a presentation explaining how performance is monitored, ensuring transparency and open communication. These quarterly reviews, coupled with the new template, have contributed to a 90% staff retention rate.

Eyles has also launched the Pineapple programme for the reservation team, a gamified initiative that uses points earned through bookings to reward achievements. These points translate into incentives such as dinners, spa treatments and hotel stays, fostering a fun and competitive atmosphere.

Eyles’s commitment to empowering others has nurtured a culture of growth, but her commitment to mentorship and skills development extends outside the company. As well as engaging with students, she manages work placements through Send 4, a local charity for young adults with autism. She has also mentored a Bournemouth University student, who eventually became a full-time staff member.

What excites you most about the future of hospitality?

"When I first entered into my role as reservationist in the shell of a hotel, I had no idea of the journey I was about to embark on. The life and soul within the Nici is unique; it ignites the fire in my stomach every day when I come to work. I hope my future is full of opportunity to expand within the group, to inspire the younger generation and prove that hospitality is a rewarding career."