The Gold Service Scholarship has announced the appointment of Conor O’Leary, group managing director of Gleneagles and Estelle Manor, to its board of trustees.
O’Leary brings a wealth of experience to the role, having led some of the hospitality industry’s most celebrated operations in the UK and internationally.
His career began in London’s bar and restaurant scene, progressing to senior roles across five-star hotels in both the UK and Middle East. He previously oversaw the Hyatt group’s largest global food and beverage operation at Grand Hyatt Dubai.
Since joining Gleneagles in 2016, O’Leary has played a central role in the hotel’s evolution – leading a five-year renovation programme and the launch of the acclaimed Gleneagles Townhouse in Edinburgh. In 2025, he became group managing director, extending his remit to include Estelle Manor.
A Master Innholder, St Julian Scholar, and honorary member of the Academy of Culinary Arts, O’Leary has received wide industry recognition. He was named Hotelier of the Year at the 2023 Hotel Cateys and is listed among Walpole’s 50 Most Influential People in British Luxury. In 2022, Queen Elizabeth II appointed him honorary catering advisor to the Ministry of Defence.
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 established in 2012 to celebrate and support excellence in front-of-house hospitality. Through a prestigious annual competition and mentoring programme, it 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.
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.”
