One of the Europa Hotel’s longest-serving members of staff, Martin Mulholland, has been awarded a British Empire Medal (BEM) in the King's Birthday Honours list for services to Tourism and to Hospitality.

Martin joined the Europa on September 5, 1983 at the tender age of 17 as a Junior Concierge and 40 years on, as Head Concierge, he has welcomed millions of guests through the doors of the hotel including presidents, dignitaries and celebrities from around the world - President Clinton, Brad Pitt, Julia Roberts, Bob Dylan, Bono and Rod Stewart to name just a few.

He is also the President of Les Clefs d’Or Ireland – the global professional association of hotel concierges.

Martin Mulholland BEM said: “It is an absolute honour to receive this recognition for doing the job I love. The Europa has been home to me for 40 years and many of the guests I have got to know in this time have become friends. I’ve had the pleasure of meeting lots of celebrities, but I like to think that I treat every guest the same, ensuring each and every one has an enjoyable stay with us.”

James McGinn, Managing Director of Hastings Hotels said: “Martin Mulholland is as iconic as the Europa itself and I speak on behalf of every single member of staff in congratulating him and I know that his colleagues around the world in the Les Clefs d’Or will also be delighted at the recognition he so greatly deserves. 

Martin has been a constant presence in the Europa over the last four decades and is very much embedded in the local tourism industry. He carries out his role with admirable passion and dedication, ensuring every single guest receives the very best of Northern Irish hospitality and is the reason so many return time after time.”