Ramon Pajares Excellence Scholarship Winner Announced!

The Royal Academy of Culinary Arts is proud to announce Alexandra Sollis, Guest Relations Manager at The Gleneagles Hotel, as the inaugural recipient of the Ramon Pajares Excellence Scholarship. Launched with the Savoy Educational Trust in honour of the late Ramon Pajares OBE, an esteemed hospitality leader and cherished member of both organisations, the Scholarship supports rising stars in the hospitality industry with a tailored programme of mentorship, development opportunities, and financial assistance to support their continuing professional journey.

Alexandra, who stood out among an exceptionally strong field of candidates, has been recognised for her potential, drive, and commitment to personal and professional growth. She will be a truly worthy ambassador as the first recipient of The Ramon Pajares Excellence Scholarship. The Academy wholeheartedly congratulates Alexandra on this well-deserved achievement and looks forward to following her progress as she embarks on this exciting new chapter. 

Lisa Jenkins, Chief Executive Officer at The Royal Academy of Culinary Arts adds:
“Alex is inspiring, because whilst she is already extremely accomplished, she also knows she is not the finished article and understands the value of mentorship. She is hungry to learn, determined and proactive, and her positivity is infectious.”

Angela Maher, Chief Executive at The Savoy Educational Trust, says:
“Alexandra was amazing on the day of judging, and it was an absolute pleasure to hear about her journey so far, as well as learning about her future aspirations.  It is wonderful to witness such passion for the industry, and this really shone through. Alexandra is a deserving beneficiary of the Ramon Pajares Excellence Scholarship, and we very much look forward to having played some small part in her journey going forward.”

The judging panel for this year's scholarship comprised some of the sector’s most respected figures:
Sandeep Bhalla, General Manager, The Connaught; Melissa Fergus, General Manager, Mauro Colagreco, Raffles London at The OWO; Howard Field, Chair, The Savoy Educational Trust; Zoe Jenkins, General Manager, Coworth Park, Ascot; Angela Maher, CEO, The Savoy Educational Trust; Guillaume Marly, General Manager, Waldorf Astoria London Admiralty Arch

Following the award of the Ramon Pajares Excellence Scholarship, Alexandra will receive a £5,000 cash award from the Savoy Educational Trust and be paired with a mentor from the panel of judges. Alexandra will attend the AAE Gala Dinner on 29th July, where she will be presented with her trophy on stage in front of the Academy and its distinguished guests.