In this edition of the Hotelier Edit series, we speak with James McGinn, Managing Director of Hastings Hotels, about his journey through the hospitality industry from starting out as a teenage waiter in Omagh to leading one of Northern Ireland’s most prestigious hotel groups. James shares insights into nurturing talent, the enduring legacy of Ballygally Castle as it celebrates its 400th anniversary, and how Hastings Hotels continues to evolve its guest experience while staying rooted in authentic Northern Irish hospitality.

What was your first role in hospitality, and why did you decide to pursue a career in the industry?

I started as a waiter and barman at Knock-na-moe Castle Hotel in Omagh at just 15 years old. My uncle was the General Manager there, so it was a great introduction to the industry. From an early age, I was drawn to the fast-paced and dynamic nature of hospitality, and I enjoyed the opportunity to engage with people and contribute to their experiences.

You became Managing Director of Hastings Hotels in  Jan 2022, after 20 years as the GM of the Group’s iconic Europa Hotel in Belfast, how have you approached the role?

Since joining Hastings Hotels in 1996 as Quality Development Manager, and progressing through various leadership roles, I have developed a strong understanding of the company’s values and operations. As Managing Director, my approach has been to honour that legacy of excellence while driving innovation, empowering our teams, and ensuring we consistently deliver outstanding experiences for our guests across all our properties.

Pictured: Culloden Estate & Spa

What would you say to encourage more young people to enter the industry?

I would say to any young person considering a career in hospitality that it’s one of the most dynamic and rewarding industries you can be part of. It offers incredible opportunities for growth, variety, and progression, whether you're passionate about people, food, events, or leadership.

How does Hastings Hotel Group approach supporting people and culture across the portfolio?

We definitely place a strong emphasis on fostering a supportive and empowering culture across our portfolio. The company has a full and comprehensive People and Culture Strategy executed by passionate people who are committed to learning and development. As well as this, our senior management team is encouraged to actively support our board and contribute to shaping the strategic direction of the company.

One key example of this is our Management Ambassador Programme. Over the past decade, more than 50 employees have completed the six-month programme, including several of our current General Managers. This programme is run in conjunction with Ulster Business School and our internal Learning & Development Team. It is CDP at its best, designed to enhance participants' confidence, professionalism, and leadership skills; while deepening their understanding of customer service, team management, and operational performance which ensures we continue to nurture talent from within.

Ballygally Castle Hotel is marking an amazing 400th anniversary this year, what do you think has contributed to the hotel’s enduring legacy? How will the hotel be celebrating?

Ballygally Castle’s 400th anniversary is a really special occasion, and its remarkable longevity is down to the hotel’s rich history, loyal guests, and its strong connection to the local community. The hotel has always managed to preserve its unique charm while adapting to the needs of modern travellers, which is no small feat over four centuries.

To celebrate this incredible milestone, we’ve launched a year-long campaign that includes exclusive guest packages, local events designed to bring the community together, and specially commissioned merchandise to mark the occasion. It’s a chance to honour the castle’s past while looking forward to many more memorable years ahead.

How would you describe the guest experience at Ballygally?

The guest experience at Ballygally Castle is unlike anywhere else. Celebrated as the “jewel” of the North Coast, guests can soak up a coastal escape in restored surroundings that reflect the castle’s 400-year heritage, all while enjoying modern comforts and thoughtful service that defines the Hastings Hotels brand.

Northern Ireland was famously a filming location for Game of Thrones, how did this influence the hotel’s offering?

Pictured: Ballygally Castle

With its distinctive character and location near key filming sites, Ballygally Castle has become a natural attraction for Game of Thrones fans eager to experience a piece of the show’s magic. As the proud home of the original Games of Thrones Door No. 9 and even our own dragon, we’ve embraced this connection by curating themed experiences including an afternoon tea and exclusive packages that offer guests an authentic taste of the Game of Thrones world.

What’s coming up in the future for Hastings Hotels?

While our main focus this year is the 400th anniversary of Ballygally Castle, we have some exciting developments across our culinary and arts offerings. At Grand Central Hotel, we’re set to launch an innovative new dining space, ‘The Cavern’. This new space promises a fresh experience for both returning and first-time guests and with a maximum capacity of up to 14 people, it ensures an intimate dining experience. In addition, we’re pleased to welcome back Art & Soul in partnership with Gormleys Gallery, a much-anticipated event that transforms the gardens of the Culloden Estate & Spa into an open-air gallery, showcasing exceptional artwork. This artwork will also complement our annual Bollinger Champagne Garden which transforms the grounds into a fabulous champagne and food bar. The setting is an exceptional spot for guests to enjoy the warmer weather and be surrounded by magnificent scenery.

The theme for the Independent Hotel Show 2025 is ‘Redefining Luxury’ – what defines a luxury guest experience at a Hastings Hotel?

At Hastings Hotels, luxury is defined not just by its surroundings, but by the quality of the experience we deliver to every guest. It's about offering experiences that reflect the character of each of our properties whether that be through the attention to detail, genuine hospitality, and most importantly, creating moments that feel both personal and memorable to guests.

Luxury can take many forms - from the views at our 23rd floor cocktail bar at Grand Central to the setting of our outdoor champagne bar at Culloden Estate & Spa and the intimacy of a secret wedding at any one of our hotels.

Find out more at hastingshotels.com.