‘Local’ and ‘quality’ on Stella’s shopping list as she takes on Group Procurement Role
As part of its commitment to support local suppliers, drive quality and align processes, McKeever Hotels has appointed Stella Grant to the role of Group Procurement Manager.
The new role – which reflects the successful rollout of McKeever’s growth strategy – makes Stella responsible for the purchasing of all food and services across McKeever’s seven-strong hotel portfolio.
A seasoned hospitality expert, Stella has been part of McKeever’s expanding business for 15 years.
As well as gaining extensive experience across different departments, she has held the position of General Manager of both The Dunsilly in Antrim and The Adair Arms in Ballymena.
Her previous experience in the sector also includes ten years with Jury’s Hotels in Belfast, Newcastle and Manchester.
“Leading on procurement for the entire Group is a challenge which I fully embrace,” said Stella.
“Having worked across different departments, including at GM level, I’ve gained great perspective across our entire operation and the systems we use. We now have seven quality hotels under the McKeever banner and while they’re different in terms of scale and offering, each is motivated by our ‘We Do More’ culture. By making small changes and adopting a more holistic approach I know we can add even more value, drive quality and truly enhance the customer experience.”
Founded in 1986 by Eugene and Catherine McKeever, what began as a busy restaurant and bar at Corr’s Corner has grown into an award-winning family business with seven hotels across the island of Ireland.
The company’s strategy is strongly growth focused, and over the past 12 months alone this has resulted in the acquisition of two hotels, The Lodge in Coleraine and Armagh City, extending the company’s reach and creating new market opportunities. And with further investment planned, it’s easy to see why group-wide oversight of procurement is a priority.
“As part of a family-run enterprise, the McKeevers have always prioritised the communities in which we operate. We strive to make a positive and lasting impact by supporting local businesses, and sourcing as responsibly and ethically as possible,” added Stella.
“While major contracts may be agreed on a Group-wide basis, we also adopt a more bespoke or individual stance which is in keeping with each hotel’s unique identity. This ensures an authentic guest experience and also creates opportunity for local businesses, such as the butchers, bakeries, fruit and veg, and even egg suppliers who operate close to our hotels.”
Over the next six months Stella hopes to further this partnership approach with each hotel championing and promoting a local supplier.
Welcoming Stella to the new role, Eddie McKeever, Managing Director of McKeever Hotels added: “This is an important development for the Group, particularly in light of our recent expansion news, reaffirming our commitment to best practice. With Stella’s wealth of experience, innovative approach and local contacts, she brings a new dimension to our procurement process, creating business opportunities and enhancing the hotel experience for all.”