2024 Acorn winner named IoH Restaurant Manager of the Year 2025

Former Acorn winner Alana Quigley was named Institute of Hospitality (IoH) Restaurant Manager of the Year 2025 at an award ceremony on Friday evening (28 February).

After a full day of tasks and interviews Quigley, restaurant manager at luxury Scottish hotel Gleneagles, was announced as the winner in front of hospitality professionals, industry leaders, judges and family members.

Now in its 16th year, the competition and final took place at Hotel Café Royal, London.

After receiving her win, Quigley, who won her Acorn last year, said: “I am absolutely ecstatic. In fact, that doesn’t even begin to cover it. It has been an amazing journey supported by the people I work with, and I’ve had such an amazing day. Thanks to the judges and candidates alike; they have all been incredible. I am speechless.”

When asked what advice she would give hospitality professionals who may be considering entering next year, she said: “Just do it. Just go for it. Put yourself forward and go outside your comfort zone. Being part of the selected 16 semi-finalists was an incredible journey in itself. The quality of the people and the supportive experience are probably the main things I will get out of my entire journey here today. Everyone should do it just to connect with like-minded people and meet people that are the best, true versions of themselves.”

As part of the prize, Quigley receives 12 months’ membership, a tailored professional development programme as well as invitations to the Institute’s events throughout the year.

Joshua Oliver Ndirmbita, restaurant manager at Estelle Manor, Oxfordshire, UK, was named runner-up.

IoH CEO Robert Richardson said: “All 16 finalists definitely raised the bar again this year. All the judges were highly impressed with their performance throughout the day in all the tasks, but Alana was a clear choice, and we are delighted she now takes her place as our 16th RMOY winner.”

Last year’s winner Jessica Thompson was also a former Acorn winner, having received her award in 2023. At the time of her win, she was general manager and co-owner of Mingary Castle.

The 2025 Acorn Awards is open for nominations.