St Julian Scholars Spring Meeting 2024

The St Julian Scholars Spring Meeting 2024 welcomed industry leaders, delegates, and sponsors for a day of insightful discussions and networking at The Queens Hotel Leeds on Sunday 21 and Monday 22 April.

The meeting kicked off on Sunday evening with a memorable 'safari supper' orchestrated by Mark Spanton, the general manager of the Dakota Hotel Leeds. Attendees were treated to an exquisite steak dinner at The Cut & Craft, followed by cocktails and desserts at Angelicas, setting the tone for an evening of camaraderie and anticipation for the meeting ahead.

Monday morning began with Rob Flinter MI SJS, in his final act as Chairman of the St Julian Scholars. He extended a warm welcome to the delegates, paving the way for Grant Campbell MI SJS who will be the next St Julian Scholars Chairman.

Under the theme 'Sustaining your business into the Future,' the event commenced with Kate Nicholls OBE MI who delivered an election-year UKHospitality update, confirming how hospitality across the board has experienced a tough quarter due to rising costs.

Raphaella Yver SJS led a riveting panel discussion titled 'Navigating the ESG Minefield,' featuring industry leaders such as Sue Williams MI, Amy Nelson-Bennett, and Kate Orszulik, who delved into the complexities of Environmental, Social, and Governance considerations. The panel shared the importance of addressing sustainability with a measurable framework, as legislation is on its way.

Fueled by a rejuvenating coffee break courtesy of Nespresso Professional, Kerry Mabbley from Springboard UK provided a compelling update on new initiatives for careers and education.  

'The future of destination restaurants', shared insight into the importance of restaurants being dynamic and creative to survive in the current climate, expertly moderated by Simon Numphud, with support from Adam Reid and Grant Campbell MI SJS.

The highlight of the day came with keynote speaker Mike Penrose's captivating presentation on sustainability, drawing from his extensive experience in humanitarian work and crisis management across the globe. A former hostage turned Lieutenant Colonel in the British Army, Penrose's insights left a lasting impact on all in attendance.

As the meeting drew to a close, Grant Campbell MI SJS extended thanks to all sponsors and supporters, including ACT Clean, Hartstone Rochette, Hatch Mansfield, Family Taittinger, the Independent Hotel Show, and Nespresso Professional, as well as longstanding patrons such as the Worshipful Company of Innholders, the Savoy Educational Trust, the Master Innholders Charitable Trust, and the Lord Forte Foundation.

In closing, Grant Campbell MI SJS announced the dates for the St Julian Scholars Autumn Meeting, scheduled to take place at the Pan Pacific London on Friday, 8 November 2024, preceding a lavish dinner hosted by the Worshipful Company of Innholders.