A young Donegal man has reached a career milestone after being shortlisted in the 2021 Forbes Global Travel Awards.
Commis waiter Nathan Gillespie from Moville was one of only five finalists from around the world to be shortlisted for FTG’s prestigious Restaurant Employee of the Year award.
Nathan works in the Drawing Room at the five-star Ashford Castle in Galway. He holds a degree in Hotel, Restaurant & Resort Management from the LYIT School of Tourism Killybegs.
As part of the 2021 Star Awards, Forbes Travel Guide wanted to recognize the hardworking, passionate people behind the best properties by presenting some special accolades that celebrate exemplary staff members who stood out in their service to guests and co-workers. An outstanding member of the Ashford Castle team, Nathan proudly takes his place alongside the other honourees from Hong Kong, Panama and the US on ForbesTravelGuide.com.
Thrilled with Nathan’s marvellous achievement, General Manager Niall Rochford enthused: “The team at Ashford Castle couldn’t be prouder of Nathan for reaching an incredible milestone so early in his career. It truly is quite the achievement Nathan was selected as one of only five global finalists and the accolade couldn’t be more accurate. He continuously goes above and beyond for guests and colleagues to make working or staying at Ashford Castle an enjoyable experience for everyone”.
“During a most challenging year for the hospitality industry, Nathan and the other finalists not only persevered, they also made a significant impact on guests and their fellow colleagues,” says Filip Boyen, CEO of Forbes Travel Guide (FTG). “They all personify the resiliency, ingenuity and graciousness of our community. They are an inspiration to us all.”