Contributed by Ken Ellington, General Manager of Copthorne Newcastle.

M&C’s “Rising Stars” is a staff training programme to recognise and channel high achievers through a fast track programme of development. It was launched two years ago.

The one year programme covers a variety of specialist disciplines, with a combination of study, exams and practical work, including finance, revenue, housekeeping, HR, Health & Safety and Food & Beverage.

The course culminated with a project presentation by the “Rising Stars” to M&C Senior Vice President for Europe, Mr Clive Harrington and Catherine Rake in London along with an extensive final exam.

Eight candidates successfully completed this year’s challenging course, after an initial intake of 15, with a graduation complete with an afternoon tea and a cocktail making-class at The Edgbaston boutique hotel in Birmingham.

Each year, one candidate in particular is recognised as the top student, and for 2016/17, this was awarded to Siobhan Rooney from Copthorne Newcastle.  Well done to all!