HIT Industry Award and Future Leader 2025

Scottish hospitality talent took centre stage at the 2025 Industry Dinner, with two of the profession’s finest awarded prestigious industry accolades.

Held at the Hilton Hotel in Glasgow each June, HIT Scotland’s Industry Dinner is a cornerstone in the hospitality calendar and a key fundraising initiative for the charity. Funds raised at the event go toward HIT Scotland’s scholarships and bursaries, facilitating the training and development of Scotland’s budding hospitality talent.

Attended by industry leaders, hospitality experts, and influential figures, the 2025 dinner served as a celebration of Scotland’s vibrant hospitality sector and the remarkable people who drive its success.

The evening culminated in the presentation of two highly coveted industry awards, the HIT Industry Award and the Future Leader Award.

This year, Calum Ross, General Manager of The Hilton Glasgow, received the HIT Industry Award, an honour given to individuals who have made significant contributions to the industry and are known for championing high standards.

With over 40 years of experience in the industry, having held senior positions in the likes of Stakis, Jarves and Hilton Hotels, Calum Ross is a well-respected figure in Scotland’s hospitality scene. He has successfully managed multiple Hilton properties across Ireland and the UK, championing the brand’s Operational Excellence agenda and leading by example.

Calum is a strong supporter of HIT Scotland, having participated in the 2011 Kilimanjaro expedition to raise £150,000 for the charity’s life-changing scholarships.

Recognised for his down-to-earth, yet professional approach, Calum has become a mentor and role model to others in the industry, coaching others to develop within the profession.

He was presented with the award by the Chair of HIT Scotland, Alan Halliday.

The Future Leader Award, sponsored by Braehead Foods, is an accolade bestowed upon a professional who has displayed immense commitment to the industry and is deemed a ‘one to watch’ for the future. Glenn Woodage, Premium Business Manager for Whyte and Mackay, was presented with the title.

The judging panel was impressed by Glenn’s remarkable drive, determination and willingness to support HIT Scotland Futures Group, an inclusive networking group for young professionals within the industry.

Having recently completed the HIT the Hebrides Challenge, in addition to many more Future Group fundraising initiatives, Glenn was the obvious choice for the Future Leader award.

David Cochrane, HIT Scotland’s Chief Executive, said of the awards:

“HIT Scotland’s annual Industry Dinner is a standout event in the calendar, celebrating those who have contributed to the success of Scotland’s hospitality industry.

“The HIT Industry Award and Future Leader Award represent the pinnacle of this success, recognising the industry’s most dedicated and impressive professionals.

“We were overwhelmed by the number and quality of nominations this year, which is a testament to the commitment and professionalism of those working in Scotland’s hospitality sector.

“It was not an easy decision, however, Calum and Glenn stood out for their willingness to go above and beyond to raise the standards for the hospitality industry. They are worthy winners, displaying all of the positive traits that make our industry so special. Congratulations again to our 2025 winners!”

“HIT Scotland would like to extend our thanks to The Caterer, Brakes Scotland and Braehead Foods, in addition to our corporate sponsors, for their support of the 2025 Industry Dinner.”

Find out more about HIT Scotland’s various scholarships and bursaries here: https://hitscotland.co.uk/scholarships