IHF Donegal Branch announces Gabriela Rodrigues as ‘Employee of the Year’

Gabriela Rodrigues a Sous Chef at the Clanree Hotel, has been announced as the 2023/2024 Irish Hotels Federation Donegal Branch ‘Employee of the Year’. The announcement was made at the IHF Donegal Dinner Dance held in Harvey’s Point which is an annual celebration of Donegal’s tourism sector and the people at the heart of it.

Branch Chairperson Paul Diver, said the judges highlighted Gabriela’s work ethic, passion for the culinary arts and positive attitude when selecting her as the winner.

Gabriela will represent the IHF Donegal Branch at the upcoming National IHF Employee of the Year Awards which will be held during the IHF's Annual Conference in February 2024.

Gabriela joined the Clanree Hotel team in 2017 as a Kitchen Porter, where her ability to adapt, learn and grow saw her rapidly progress in the culinary department, reaching her current role of Sous Chef. Colleagues say Gabriela’s calm demeanour under pressure, excellent communication skills and eagerness to mentor others make her a source of inspiration for fellow team members.

At the event, IHF President Denyse Campbell spoke about the importance of recognising excellence, and ‘Shaping Brighter Futures’ for people in the sector by supporting future leaders and keeping teams motivated with opportunities for career progression and development.

Noel Cunningham also received a special honour from the IHF Donegal Branch at the event in recognition of his contribution to the local tourism industry.