Acorn Awards 2025: Harriet Davy, the Montague on the Gardens

Age 29

Position Reception operations manager, the Montague on the Gardens

Nominator James Hilton, front of house manager, the Montague on the Gardens

Harriet Davy has spent nearly a decade quietly shaping the guest experience at Red Carnation’s Montague on the Gardens in London – and at 29, she’s leading from the front as reception operations manager.

Davy started as a student intern in 2016 and swiftly proved she had the mindset and skill to thrive in five-star hospitality. After graduating, she returned full-time, working her way up through every level of front desk operations. Her attention to detail, calmness under pressure and knack for management saw her rise to head receptionist by 2019 and to her current role in 2024.

Over the past year, Davy has played a central role in a major systems upgrade, helping the hotel transition from Maestro to Opera Cloud. She provided hands-on training, solved integration issues and ensured operations ran smoothly throughout. Her work has directly improved operational efficiency and guest service across the hotel.

Davy also sets a high standard in leadership. She recently became the first person in Red Carnation Hotels to complete the Institute of Hospitality’s Ambassadors in Management Level 3 programme, adding performance management, conflict resolution and appraisal skills to her already strong leadership toolbox.

Her impact goes well beyond the desk. She leads regular donation drives for Royal Trinity Hospice and plays a pivotal role in mentoring junior colleagues and championing their professional growth, having recently helped three progress into management roles. With 100% staff retention in 2024 and a reputation for building lasting guest relationships, Davy leads with empathy, purpose and a quiet drive for excellence.