At The QHotels Collection, we recognise that success starts with our people. Whether someone is taking their very first step into hospitality, transitioning from a different career path, or bringing years of leadership experience into a new chapter, we pride ourselves on creating opportunities for development, growth and long-term success. That’s why moments of recognition mean so much to us, and why this year’s Purple Umbrella Awards 2025 was a celebration we will remember for a long time to come.
This Autumn, the awards, hosted by one of our apprenticeship providers, Umbrella Training, took centre stage in the historic surroundings of the House of Lords. The event brought together apprentices, employers, mentors, and hospitality leaders from across the UK to honour excellence and champion the future of the industry. For us, it was also a moment of immense pride, as three of our exceptional team members from The QHotels Collection were named finalists for their outstanding achievements.
Kerry Allen, General Manager at Crewe Hall Hotel & Spa; Juliane Paetz, Operations Manager at Norton Park Hotel, Spa & Manor House; and Cameron Ellson, Operations Manager at Cambridge Belfry Hotel & Spa, were recognised in the Best Level 5 Apprentice category, with Cameron also shortlisted for Best Apprentice Mentor. Their leadership, drive and commitment to continuous development reflect everything that makes Team Q so special.
We were thrilled to celebrate their finalist status, as well as the Highly Commended recognitions awarded to Kerry Allen (Best Level 5 Apprentice) and Cameron Ellson (Best Apprentice Mentor). These accolades acknowledge the outstanding impact they have made within their hotels, across The QHotels Collection, and throughout the wider hospitality community.
Whilst the evening recognises individual’s excellence, it also highlights the power of high-quality apprenticeships and the difference they make for people at every stage of their careers.
A Celebration of Learning, Growth and Opportunity
The Purple Umbrella Awards are a true highlight of the hospitality calendar. Led by Umbrella Training’s Founder, Adele Oxberry, and Executive Director of Growth and Partnerships, Sam Coulstock, the evening honoured apprentices from a wide range of pathways, from newcomers taking their first steps in hospitality to future leaders already shaping the industry’s tomorrow.
What makes the event so special is its recognition that hospitality is built on people: those who are willing to learn, those who guide and mentor others and those who create environments where growth is not only possible but encouraged.
This ethos mirrors our own. At The QHotels Collection, we’re passionate about providing structured learning, supported progression, and meaningful development that leads to real careers. Apprenticeships are not simply a training option for us; they are a pillar of how we nurture talent and build the leaders of the future.
Why Apprenticeships Matter More Than Ever
In today’s changing world of work, people are looking for careers that offer purpose, flexibility, and the opportunity to grow. This is especially true for career changes, people returning to work, and those transitioning from structured backgrounds such as the armed forces. Many of our most successful apprentices came to us seeking a new direction, a new challenge, or a place where their existing strengths could shine in fresh ways.
Hospitality offers exactly that. It is an industry built on teamwork, leadership, service, communication, agility and resilience, skills that are invaluable and transferable across a wide range of experiences and backgrounds.
And through our apprenticeship programmes, we help people develop these strengths even further with:
- Clear and achievable progression pathways
- A supportive learning environment
- Real responsibilities and hands-on experience
- Mentoring delivered by passionate, experienced leaders
- Qualification that opens doors to long-term careers
As Kayleigh Dukes, Talent & Apprenticeship Development Partner at Q, shared:
“Kerry, Juliane and Cameron embody the dedication, professionalism, and passion that make our teams exceptional. Their achievements highlight how apprenticeships continue to strengthen our business and the industry as a whole.”
Their journeys demonstrate what is possible when the right opportunities meet the right people.
Creating Careers to Be Proud Of
For us, the Purple Umbrella Awards are about more than recognition, they reaffirm the importance of investing in our people and providing the pathways that allow them to thrive. Learning doesn’t stop at a certain age, career stage or experience level. Instead, it evolves, opening doors to new skills, new opportunities and new ambitions. That belief is at the core of everything we do.
Whether someone is starting a new chapter, exploring a second career, or looking for a role where their strengths can shine, our apprenticeship programmes offer a welcoming and structured route into an industry full of possibility.
Ready to Take Your Next Step?
If you’re searching for a career with genuine development, strong support, and opportunities to grow at every level. The QHotels Collection could be the place for you.
Explore our apprenticeship programmes and current opportunities at: https://www.qhotels.co.uk/careers/
Photo Caption:
Left to Right: Juliane Paetz, Operations Manager at Norton Park; Kerry Allen, General Manager at Crewe Hall; Claire Cregan, HR Director; Jan Willem Lensen, Managing Director; Kayleigh Dukes, Talent & Apprenticeship Development Partner; Cameron Ellson, Operations Manager at Cambridge Belfry.
