Chris Bancroft, Operations Manager at The Newt in Somerset, has been named the winner of the Master Innholder’s GM of the Future award
at The Independent Hotel Show 2023.
Alongside being granted the prestigious title, Chris will be awarded a place on the distinguished General Management Programme at Cornel University, New York, USA. 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 for 14 years, was recognised at the awards on Monday 16 October for his engagement and passion within the industry.
Judges commented:
“Chris showed himself to be a caring leader and the focus on the welfare of his team was evident in his application.
“It’s clear he loves the industry while still promoting a good work life balance. He demonstrated very creative new ideas for the hotel and showed why it’s so important to engage with the wider community and industry initiatives such as Springboard.
“His strong ethics around being a great general manager were admired by all of the judges, showing as someone who is supportive with a clear sense of purpose and able to bring his team on the journey with him.”
Speaking on being awarded GM of the Future 2023, Chris said:
“I feel very privileged to receive the GM of The Future Award, this recognition is a testament to the dedication and passion of our team, and it reaffirms our commitment to pushing the boundaries of hospitality. Thank you to the Master Innholders for the incredible opportunity and support.”
Of the seven individuals shortlisted, two were awarded the ‘Highly Commended’ accolade, including Chiara Sorrentino, Operations Manager at South Lodge and Jordan Hughes, Hotel Manager at Northcote.
The GM of the Future award was presented on the evening by Dan Rose-Bristow MI, Chairman of the Master Innholders.
Commenting on the awards, Dan Rose-Bristow MI said:
“Our aim when we developed the GM of the Future Award back in 2019 was to both recognise and nurture the amazing talent within the hotel industry by enabling people access to life-changing training and development that they would otherwise typically be unable to access.
“It’s all about removing the boundaries that exist for so many in our industry, and I’m excited to see how Chris continues to develop and grow into an incredible General Manager as a result of his accolade. Myself and my fellow Master Innholders extend our sincerest congratulations to Chris and all of the other incredible hoteliers shortlisted.”
Nominations for the GM of the Futures Award were judged by a panel of leading hoteliers and experts in the industry, including Dan Rose-Bristow MI, Chairman of the Master Innholders, James B Clarke MI, General Manager at Park Plaza Westminster Bridge London, Glenn Wallace, Event Manager at Montgomery Group, Adrian Ellis MI, General Manager at The Lowry Hotel, Petra Clayton, CEO at Custard, Wallace Vincent, Executive Secretary at Master Innholders and Karen Weisheit, Hotel Manager at Grove of Narberth at GM of the Future winner 2022.
