Double honours: Meet the four under-30s who won both a 2025 Acorn and a Catey

Benoit Raffi, director of revenue, Kimpton Fitzroy London

2025 Hotel Cateys Revenue Manager of the Year and Acorn Award winner

What does the double 2025 Acorn and 2025 Hotel Cateys recognition mean to you?

Honestly, I’m still buzzing. These awards were big goals for me before hitting 30, so ticking them off feels surreal. I’m proud, but I’m also very aware I wouldn’t be here without my team at the Kimpton Fitzroy London and the mentors who backed me over the past 10 years.

You’ve been recognised for creating meaningful impact. How do you measure success in your role?

The numbers matter in revenue management, of course. My success is measured by hitting those targets, but the real win for me, as a mentor, is seeing people grow. Sharing what I know and watching someone level up is the kind of success that sticks.

What do you hope your career looks like in five years?

I just want to keep making an impact on the hotels I work with and on the next generation coming into the industry; helping people find their spark and turn it into a career they love. I believe the younger generation need more support to find that passion and turn it into a career. 

Charlotte Karadag, rooms division manager, De Vere Tortworth Court

2024 Hotel Cateys Front of House Manager of the Year and 2025 Acorn Award winner

What does achieving both an Acorn and a Catey before 30 mean to you?

Winning both at this stage of my career is incredibly humbling. It’s a validation of the decisions I’ve made and the teams I’ve been fortunate enough to work alongside. These awards don’t just celebrate individual achievement, they reflect the collective support of everyone who has shaped my journey.

How have these two awards shaped your confidence and career trajectory?

They have reinforced that I’m on the right path and have something valuable to contribute. They’ve also opened new doors for leadership opportunities, leading to greater involvement in industry conversations I care about. In many ways, they’ve accelerated my career but, more importantly, they’ve strengthened my belief in the importance of backing yourself, even when the journey feels uncertain.

What excites you the most about hospitality today?

The shift towards more purposeful, people-first hospitality. Guests want experiences that feel authentic, thoughtful and connected, and that gives us the freedom to be creative in ways we haven’t been before. Technology is evolving, sustainability is becoming non-negotiable, and the industry is redefining what great service really means. It’s an incredibly dynamic moment, and being part of shaping the next chapter feels energising.

Ellie Dimes, senior restaurant manager, Lucknam Park

2023 Hotel Cateys Restaurant Manager of the Year and 2025 Acorn Award winner

Tell us what it fees like being a double Acorn and Hotel Catey winner

Both awards have given me immense pride and to have my work recognised by top industry professionals is worth so much. I have always strived to give the guests I serve a top experience at Lucknam Park hotel and to develop my team, and both aspects of my job are extremely important. I have always benefitted from having industry leaders guiding me in my career, and I welcome the opportunity to now guide my team, many of whom have experienced success. I am looking forward to future challenges that I will face in my career as I progress further up the ladder. 

What excites you about your future in hospitality?

A career in hospitality has no ceiling. Unlike many industries where progression can be slow and limited, in hospitality, with hard work, dedication and commitment the world is literally your oyster. I’m passionate about my future in this great industry and am determined to be the very best version of myself that I can be.

If you’re inspired to enter the Cateys or the Acorns in 2026, both competitions will be opening soon