Lederer wins lifetime achievement award

Peter Lederer CBE, of Gleneagles Hotel and VisitScotland chairman, received the prestigious Hospitality Industry Trust (HIT) Scotland lifetime achievement award last week at the charity's annual industry dinner.

Lederer was nominated by a group of senior hospitality professionals for his dedication to helping talented people in industry, his leadership, council and his ability to raise the aspirations of those around him.

David Cochrane, chief executive of HIT Scotland, said: "Throughout his career Peter has helped many individuals reach great levels within our profession. He has achieved many awards and accolades but has never looked to take credit personally. It was fitting to pay tribute to Peter, not only as a leader, but also for his friendship, advice and hard work. He is an inspiration to the tourism and hospitality industry, in Scotland and beyond."

The fund-raising Industry Dinner attracted over 450 guests. Together they raised £60,000 for HIT Scotland's university bursary fund and industry scholarship programme.

Lederer is over the moon with his award: "The industry has been so good to me and I have always tried to give back where I can. The award was a huge surprise and it means a lot to me as it comes from the group who started HIT Scotland, all people I respect and admire. I have been involved from its beginning in 1994 and it is tremendous to see how it has grown in stature."

"It's important that the industry looks to continually develop and improve. Managers always say that their biggest asset is their people, and we need to invest in them even when times are tough. If we continue to raise aspirations and encourage the leaders of the tomorrow then we can come through any challenge the industry may face."

Past winners of the award include Neil Thomson, chief executive of the Federation of Chefs Scotland, and Ken McCulloch of Dakota hotels.

Lederer was presented with his award at the glittering Glasgow Hilton Hotel on 2 April.

Words: Maria Bracken

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