Passing the toughest tests

It’s no mean feat to win the Northern Ireland Hotels Federation award for Housekeeper of the Year – and the proud 2026 recipient is Zach Milligan of voco Belfast.

Candidates are scrutinised by professional experts and had to undergo an assessment day at room2 Belfast Hometel, where participants demonstrated their expertise and commitment to excellence.

Accommodation supervisor Zach’s win was revealed during an awards dinner at Hilton Belfast. Hosted by Donna Traynor, the event marked 15 years of rewarding first class housekeeping and welcomed leading industry professionals and supporters for an evening of celebration and recognition. This year’s competition was supported by Tourism Northern Ireland and category sponsors included Bunzl Rafferty Guest Amenities and Linencare.

Zach’s runner-up was Michele Nolan of Grand Central Hotel, with Barbora Palackova from Maldron Hotel Belfast City in third place. Hotel housekeeping team winners included: Tara Lodge, Belfast (under 75 rooms); DoubleTree by Hilton Belfast Templepatrick (75 to 149 rooms); AC Hotel by Marriott Belfast (over 150 rooms).

Vicky Green, President of NIHF, said: “Housekeeping teams are at the heart of the hotel experience, yet their work often takes place behind the scenes. These awards provide an important opportunity to recognise and celebrate the people whose standards, pride and attention to detail help define the industry.”

Zach’s win delighted colleagues, including general manager Ruairi McLaughlin, who said: “This award is up there with the most competitive across the industry, and I am delighted to see Zach recognised for his efforts, standards and leadership.”