Pennington was presented with the title at a high-profile event held at Claridge’s in London yesterday evening (9 February).
According to the Gold Service Scholarship, his win highlights the depth of front-of-house talent emerging beyond multi-site groups and luxury hotel brands.
Highly commended awards were also presented to Giacomo Arcadu, manager in training at The Lanesborough in London, and Caoimhe Houston, former head waiter at Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons in Oxfordshire, in recognition of their “exceptional performance” throughout the competition.
Pennington was selected as the Scholar from a cohort of 10 finalists who competed in the scholarship final earlier this year. During the final, they were tasked with preparing and delivering a three-course lunch for VIP guests under the scrutiny of senior industry judges.
“It is extremely encouraging to see such a high calibre of young front-of-house professionals flourishing across all parts of our industry,” says Gold Service Scholarship chairman Alastair Storey.
Pennington’s win is particularly significant as it demonstrates that excellence in service is thriving not only in global luxury brands but also in independent, single-site restaurants.
“The continued growth of Team Gold, now made up of more than 100 alumni, has created an extraordinary platform for professional development, both in the UK and internationally.”
As the new Scholar, Pennington will receive a bespoke programme of prizes and professional development opportunities designed to support his long-term career in hospitality.
Pennington and his fellow highly commended finalists will benefit from work experience at some of the world’s most prestigious hotels and restaurants, including Mandarin Oriental Bangkok and Hong Kong; an overseas Rocco Forte hotel; a State Banquet at Windsor Castle; and a visit to Laurent-Perrier in Champagne.
All winning finalists will also receive a range of additional development opportunities, including a trip to Porto, courtesy of Graham’s Port; a bespoke development programme at EHL Hospitality Business School in Lausanne, Switzerland; stages at leading restaurants; and the opportunity to work at a royal garden party at Buckingham Palace. All winning finalists automatically join the Team Gold alumni network.
Open to individuals aged 22–30 working in the UK hospitality industry, the Gold Service Scholarship was founded in 2012 to inspire the next generation of hospitality professionals in the art of service.