Gleneagles’ Conor O’Leary named trustee of the Gold Service Scholarship

The Gold Service Scholarship has appointed Conor O’Leary, group managing director at Gleneagles and Estelle Manor, to its board of trustees.

He will help oversee the annual competition, which celebrates UK’s front-of-house stars of the future and runs an ongoing mentoring programme.

O’Leary brings a wealth of experience to the role, having led major hospitality venues in the UK and overseas.

After starting his career in London’s bar and restaurant scene, he oversaw Hyatt group’s largest global food and beverage operation at Grand Hyatt Dubai.

Since joining Gleneagles in 2016, O’Leary has overseen a five-year refurbishment and major evolution at the five-AA-star hotel, including the launch of sister property Gleneagles Townhouse in Edinburgh. In 2025, he became group managing director, extending his remit to Estelle Manor.

He was named Hotelier of the Year 2023 by The Caterer in recognition of his achievements.

Alastair Storey, chairman of the Gold Service Scholarship and founder of WSH, said: “Conor is a truly exceptional hospitality leader whose track record of innovation, excellence and mentorship speaks for itself.

“His appointment strengthens our board at a time when inspiring and developing the next generation of front-of-house professionals has never been more important. We are delighted to welcome him to the scholarship.”

The Gold Service Scholarship was founded in 2012 and offers structured career development, educational opportunities and access to a network of industry leaders for the UK’s most talented food and beverage service professionals.

Isabella Condon, junior assistant manager at Dinner by Heston Blumenthal in London, won the 2025 competition.

O’Leary said: “The Gold Service Scholarship plays an important role in elevating the profile of service in British hospitality. It’s an honour to join the board and contribute to an organisation that is so passionately committed to the future of our industry.”