Apex Hotels CEO scoops HIT Scotland honour

Hospitality Industry Trust (HIT) Scotland has presented its 2024 HIT Industry Award to Angela Vickers, chief executive of Apex Hotels.

Vickers picked up the accolade, delivered in association with The Caterer and Brakes Scotland, having successfully overseen the revitalisation of the family-owned hotel group since joining in 2004. This includes £60m funding for rural expansion, such as its recent acquisition of Meldrum House Country Hotel and Golf Course in Aberdeenshire.

With 28 years’ experience in the industry, beginning with the likes of Stakis and Hilton Hotels, Vickers is a hospitality veteran. Holding a master’s degree in hospitality leadership, she has been involved with HIT Scotland since 2006 when she joined the Edinburgh Lunch Committee. She became a trustee in 2011, and has been chair for the past six years, her industry knowledge and passion for employee development proving to be a positive driver for the charity.

She received the honour as part of this year’s HIT Scotland’s Industry Dinner, recently held at Glasgow’s Hilton hotel. The event also saw the Future Leader Award presented to James McGuire, commercial manager at Coca Cola Europacific Partners, who was recognised for his remarkable career trajectory, having worked his way up in major drinks brands, including a seven-year stint at Bacardi, to take on a senior role within Coca-Cola’s newly created alcohol ready to drink team.

McGuire is also involved with the Scottish Licensed Trade Benevolent Society where he recently became the youngest vice-president in The Ben’s history.

David Cochrane, HIT Scotland’s chief executive, said of the awards: “The HIT Industry Award and Future Leader Award are HIT Scotland’s most prestigious accolades, celebrating the industry’s brightest and most committed talent. This year, the calibre of nominations was truly outstanding – which is an excellent reflection on the state of the industry and the people who work tirelessly to make it better.

“Our 2024 winners were highly deserving of their award, displaying the values, commitment and dedication that continues to raise the standards for the hospitality industry.”

HIT Scotland’s Industry Dinner also marked the 30th anniversary of the charity.