HIT Scotland Award Winners 2023

Alan Russell and James Stagg, Editor of The Caterer

Congratulations to the winners of our top two Scottish hospitality industry accolades, announced at the annual HIT Scotland Industry Dinner on Thursday 23 March 2023 at the Hilton Hotel in Glasgow. Both accolades recognise individuals who have demonstrated an outstanding commitment to the hospitality industry.

The 2023 HIT Industry Award winner is Alan Russell, Contracts Sales Manager for Müller Milk & Ingredients, while the winner of the HIT Future Leaders Award is Mollie McCaughley, Deputy General Manager of Hotel du Vin at One Devonshire Gardens.

Awarded in association with Brakes Scotland and The Caterer, the Industry Award recognises an individual who has demonstrated outstanding commitment to the industry and is acknowledged as head and shoulders above their peer group. Winner Alan Russell has had a long career in the hospitality industry and is well-known in the sector for his encyclopaedic knowledge of his subject matter and commitment to helping others. A great supporter of the industry for many years, Alan’s commitment to the development of people of all ages impressed the judges and he has always followed through on initiatives and activities. His extensive knowledge of the supply side of the industry, coupled with his calm and unflappable manner, demonstrated many of the great attributes of industry leaders of the future.

Craig Stevenson of Braehead Foods, Mollie McCaughley, David Cochrane MBE

The Future Leader Award, supported by Braehead Foods, showcases an individual who has demonstrated commitment to the industry and is recognised as ‘one to watch’ for the future. The judging panel were impressed by winner Mollie McCaughley’s drive, determination and willingness to support new entrants to the industry. 

The Industry Dinner is the showcase event for the hospitality industry in Scotland and is HIT Scotland’s largest annual event, playing a crucial role in raising funds for its wide variety of scholarships and bursaries.

David Cochrane, HIT Scotland Chief Executive, commented:

“The Industry Award and Future Leader Award are HIT Scotland’s most prestigious accolades, representing exceptional commitment to our sector. They were presented at our Industry Dinner, a vital fundraising event for our charity.

“Recognising individuals with both longstanding careers and those showing promise for the future, these awards are essential for showcasing success in Scottish hospitality. Congratulations again to Alan and Mollie!”

HIT Scotland would like to thank Brakes Scotland, The Caterer, and Braehead Foods, along with their corporate sponsors, for their support of the 2023 Industry Awards.