National Recognition For Invers Pair At National Hospitality Awards

A dedicated approach to the hospitality industry has earned national recognition for two members of the Invercargill Licensing Trust.

General manager Greg Mulvey has been inducted into the Hospitality New Zealand Hall of Fame for his contribution to the industry and local community, while Emberz at Ascot restaurant supervisor Nicole Kay has received a Rising Stars Award.

During the past 30 years under Mulvey’s leadership, the organisation has grown to be one of the most successful licensing trusts in the country. Last year, the ILT and ILT Foundation injected a combined $8.75 million in grants into the local community.

Mulvey said he was delighted and humbled by the Hall of Fame recognition.

“It’s been a privilege to hold this position and serve both the Invercargill Licensing Trust and the Invercargill community,” he said.

“It has been a career highlight to see the Trust go from strength to strength and ultimately benefit our city. We’ve come a long way over the years but it’s been very much a team effort, of which I am just a member. I’ve worked alongside some incredibly talented and dedicated people.

“There’s certainly been some challenges, including changes in liquor laws, but our focus has always been on achieving business success which enables us to continue to make a huge difference to the local community.”

Mulvey, who was just 34 when he was appointed General Manager 10 years after he joined the team as an accountant, announced his retirement in July and will be succeeded by present Sales and Marketing Manager Chris Ramsay at the end of this year.

In contrast, Kay started working at the Ascot Park Hotel just three years ago, quickly progressing through the ranks to a supervisory role.

Hospitality New Zealand chief executive Vicki Lee said judges of the inaugural Rising Stars Awards admired Kay’s determination to be involved in the industry long-term.

“They loved her dedication to learn … including going home at night to research menu items she was unsure about, quizzing the chef on them the next day before passing on her new-found knowledge onto the guests,” she said.

Ascot Park Hotel general manager Bryan Townley said Kay was an asset to Emberz.

“Right from the start she really showed her ability to lead and immerse herself in the hospitality industry. She’s got some great attributes which bode well for her future career,” he said.

“Often hospitality tends to be ‘a job until you get your real job’ and it’s hard to attract career-focused young people. It’s fantastic to see our talented young staff now getting the kudos they deserve on a national scale and I’m sure that will keep them motivated to continue achieving in hospitality.”