Chris Turner announced as winner of the GM of the Future, the Neil Bannister Scholarship

Chris Turner, Hotel Manager at Dakota Newcastle, has been named the winner of this year’s General Manager of the Future Award, the Neil Bannister Scholarship at the Hotel Leadership Conference 2026.

Alongside being granted the reputable title, Chris has been awarded the opportunity to attend the prestigious Talent Development Programme at Cranfield University in Buckinghamshire – valued at over £11,000.

The course will provide Chris with the opportunity to work on developing business expertise and leadership capabilities, as well as help drive self-empowerment and innovation.

Chris, who has worked in hospitality industry for over 10 years, was recognised for his exemplary commitment and passion as well as his drive to grow and develop his team during the ceremony at the Hotel Leadership Conference on Monday 19 January at London Hilton on Park Lane.

Speaking on the night about his win, Chris said:

“Winning this award is genuinely surreal. It has given me the belief to push even further in 2026 and, most importantly, to bring my team with me. I wouldn’t be here without them, and I can’t wait to share with them all I learn when I undertake the Talent Development Programme at Cranfield University.

“If anyone is thinking of applying next year, I urge you to do so. You’ve got nothing to lose and everything to gain.”

Charlie Banks, Room Division Manager at The Rubens at the Palace took home the runner-up prize on the night, which includes a place on Cranfield’s Impact and Influence programme, as well as several executive coaching sessions delivered by Cranfield experts.

Other finalists from the night included Anna Kane, Hotel Manager at The Mayfair Townhouse, Ashleigh McGuire, Operations Manager at Oulton Hall and Kasia Kudzia, Hotel Operations Manager at 11 Cadogan Gardens & The Chelsea Townhouse.

Commenting on the awards, James B. Clarke MI, chair of the Master Innholders, said:

“Seeing professionals embrace development, challenge themselves and invest in their own growth is exactly why this award matters. With the GM of the Future, the Neil Bannister Scholarship, we are able to give emerging leaders the time, space and support to build confidence, broaden their perspective and connect with peers who will become part of their lifelong professional network.

“At a time when our industry needs strong, thoughtful and resilient leaders more than ever, it is incredibly rewarding to play a small part in helping the next generation step forward.”

Nominations for the GM of the Future, the Neil Bannister Scholarship were judged by a panel of leading hoteliers and experts in the industry, including James B. Clarke MI, chair of the Master Innholders and General Manager at London Hilton on Park Lane, Zoe Jenkins MI, Vice Chair of the Master Innholders and General Manager at Coworth Park, Brigitta Kovacs MIH IG, Assistant Hotel Manager at Lucknam Park Hotel and GM of the Future Winner 2025, Gareth Banner MI, Group Managing Director of The Ned and Hotelier of the Year 2024, and Alistair Sandall, Executive Secretary of the Master Innholders.