The Northern Ireland Hotels Federation is inviting hotels to nominate young talent for its 2026 Rising Stars competition,
The Northern Ireland Hotels Federation (NIHF) has launched its 2026 Rising Stars competition, calling on hotels across Northern Ireland to nominate the talented young people helping to shape the future of the industry.
Supported by Alkimii and Excel Recruitment, the initiative will recognise and celebrate emerging talent aged 30 and under who are already making a significant contribution to Northern Ireland’s hotel sector.
The competition provides a platform for NIHF members to showcase exceptional individuals within their hotels, reward their contribution and highlight the breadth of opportunities available to those choosing a career in hospitality.
This year’s Rising Stars will be celebrated at the Leadership Lunch during Hospitality Exchange 2026 at the Crowne Plaza Belfast on Tuesday 13 October, featuring Michelin-starred chef Spencer Metzger, a great role model for those starting out in the industry.
Kate Moynihan, Director of Growth Europe at Alkimii, said:
“At Alkimii, we’ve spent years working alongside the hospitality industry, and we’ve seen first-hand the difference great talent makes for businesses, for guests, and for the colleagues who work alongside them. Hospitality is a career with genuine growth potential, and initiatives like the Rising Star Awards play a vital role in recognising the people driving that potential forward. We’re proud to deepen our support for the NIHF this year and honoured to be part of an award that celebrates the emerging talent shaping our industry’s future.”
Damien Davis, Belfast Branch Manager at Excel Recruitment, said:
“At Excel Recruitment, we are delighted to be sponsoring the Rising Star Awards this year and to have the opportunity to celebrate the next generation of talent within the hospitality sector. Emerging young professionals bring fresh ideas, energy and ambition to our industry, and their contribution will be vital to shaping the future of hospitality. Recognising and encouraging that talent is something we are incredibly passionate about, and we are thrilled to support an award that shines a light on those who are making their mark and showing such promise.”
NIHF President Vicky Green added:
“The hotel industry’s success hinges on attracting, retaining and engaging talented individuals in the early stages of their careers. The Rising Stars competition not only showcases exceptional young talent but also highlights the diverse career opportunities available across the hospitality sector.
“A career in hospitality can offer a rewarding future, with job satisfaction, competitive pay and real opportunities for progression. The breadth of roles within the hotel sector enables people to develop valuable skills and build long-term careers.
“I would encourage all Federation members to get behind the competition and nominate the rising stars within their hotels. I’m looking forward to meeting this year’s exceptional finalists and celebrating their achievements at Hospitality Exchange in October.”
The Rising Stars form part of Hospitality Exchange 2026, the Northern Ireland Hotels Federation’s flagship two-day industry conference, which takes place at the Crowne Plaza Belfast on Tuesday 13 and Wednesday 14 October.
Now in its third decade, Hospitality Exchange brings together leaders from across Northern Ireland’s hotel, hospitality and tourism sectors to explore the challenges, opportunities and innovations shaping the industry.
Entries close September 4th
NIHF members can nominate one individual from their hotel who is aged 30 or under. Entries close on Friday 4 September 2026. For further information and to submit a nomination, visit www.nihf.co.uk/rising-stars-2026/.
