A career which began with a 1989 three-month summer job at a small local hotel has seen Ballintra's Deirdre McGlone rise to the pinnacle of the Irish hospitality sector.

Deirdre, the Managing Director at Harvey’s Point Hotel, has been honoured as a Thought Leader in tourism and hospitality by the prestigious All-Ireland Business Foundation.

Deirdre McGlone of Harvey’s Point receiving All-Ireland Business Foundation Accreditation at Croke Park from Dr Briga Hynes of the Kemmy Business School at the University of Limerick and Minister of State for Trade, Employment and Business, Pat Breen. Deirdre was also recognised with an All-Ireland Business Foundation All-Star Award as a Thought Leader in Tourism and Hospitality. Pic Conor McCabe.

The self-proclaimed ‘Happy Hotelier’ has overseen the growth of Harvey’s Point from 20 bedrooms and a small restaurant to a luxurious resort with 64 palatial suites.

Furthermore, Deirdre is passionate about encouraging female enterprise in rural communities. She is the President of the Donegal Women in Business Network, a member of the ‘Going for Growth’ women in business community and a mentor in ACORNS, an organisation which assists women in start-up businesses in rural Ireland.

The All-Ireland Business Foundation has further recognised Harvey’s Point by naming it among the first businesses in the country to achieve their new quality mark, the Business All-Star, signifying they meet the highest standards of service and trust.

Harvey’s Point Hotel, Co. Donegal

Companies and business leaders from across Ireland were honoured with recognition as All-Ireland Business All-Stars, Thought Leaders and Lifetime Achievers by the All-Ireland Business Foundation.

The achievements of 36 companies and eight business leaders were celebrated at an All-Ireland Business Foundation ceremony in Croke Park.

Also receiving Accreditation on the day was entrepreneur Laura Bonner. Laura co-founded the Donegal based craft drinks company The Muff Liquor Company, and their craft gin has taken the Irish and UK gin markets by storm since its launch last year.

Business All-Stars 2018 at Croke Park: Michael Bonner, Laura Bonner, Pat Breen TD and Deirdre McGlone (Harvey’s Point)

The Muff Liquor Company is the brainchild of Inishowen-born entrepreneur Laura and her business partner Tom Russell from Manchester.

Speaking after the awards ceremony, Laura shared her delight at achieving the accolade:

“This is a huge stamp of approval from the industry in our product and in our company. It is hugely significant for the company and a credit to the hard work and commitment shown by the company and our staff in promoting this exciting new craft gin product.

“We are confident that this accreditation will help in making our brand and product widely recognised.”