Acorn Awards 2026: Ella Pearson, Municipal Hotel & Spa Liverpool – MGallery Collection

Position Director of operations, the Municipal Hotel & Spa Liverpool – MGallery Collection 

Age 29

Nominator Annie Brown, general manager, Municipal Hotel & Spa Liverpool – MGallery Collection 

Ella Pearson joined the Municipal Hotel & Spa Liverpool – MGallery Collection when it opened in 2023 as director of rooms and spa. Just two years later she was promoted to director of operations, and now oversees four departments, 140 employees and an eight-figure turnover. In the past year, she has delivered strong net operating profit growth, representing an 85% year-on-year increase.

Her impact is particularly clear across food and beverage, where she has driven a 48.8% increase in gross operating profit. Initiatives such as a new cocktail concept and a reworked afternoon tea, which won an Award of Excellence at the 2025 Afternoon Tea Awards, have strengthened both revenue and brand identity. 

Pearson also mentors her colleagues into leaders, identifying those with ability to rise through the ranks, such as one who progressed from receptionist to supervisor and now to guest relations manager. Employee engagement at the hotel has risen to 91%, reflecting a more motivated and committed team.

Pearson also makes a strong contribution to the wider industry through education. She has built a close relationship with nearby St Helens College, where she delivers talks on her career journey and the opportunities available in hospitality. She also champions work experience programmes, welcoming up to 10 students twice a year both front and back of house to provide invaluable confidence, skills and connections for a future career.