Jessica Thompson, Co-owner & general manager, Mingary Castle on 30 under 30

As part of this year’s 30 under 30 list, we have awarded three entrants a special accolade. The first is the ‘Pioneer award’, given for breaking new ground in hospitality and establishing a creative and flourishing business. Here we speak to this year’s Pioneer winner Jessica Thompson, the co-owner and general manager of Mingary Castle in Scotland.

What does this award mean to you?  

To be recognised for all of my hard work and dedication means so much to me. I was drawn to hospitality from a very young age. I started out helping my mum in our family bed and breakfast and then went on to my first part-time job – as a kitchen porter. Ten years after leaving school, I had the opportunity to travel the world. This award and my career mean everything to me. 

How do you feel about hospitality in the UK and your part in making it so rewarding?  

It’s been a tough few years for the hospitality industry and devastating for many businesses, but things will get better, because they always do. Dining out is always a special experience, whether celebrating an occasion or just out for a simple meal, and it’s my responsibility to make that experience memorable. Nothing is more rewarding than giving our guests an experience they will remember. At Mingary Castle, I train my team to deliver the best service possible and nothing makes me prouder than the positive comments I get back. This is the biggest reward. To have a team that delivers the standard of hospitality I would deliver myself.  

What do you hope to achieve in the future?  

I hope to keep growing Mingary Castle and to be recognised as one of the best places to eat and sleep in Scotland. With my partner Colin, I hope to grow and develop my knowledge in food and beverage and hospitality management and although we own our business, we do not own the building, so I hope to achieve the same recognition in our own place one day too.

Why is young talent so important?  

Hospitality is a challenging but rewarding career and businesses are adapting and striving for a better work-life balance in the industry. Young talent is so important to help the industry grow and develop and to encourage young talented individuals to join the industry.

What drove you to settle into this remote area of Scotland and to restore this beautiful (if very out of the way) property?  

Being born and raised in Uist, I have always been drawn to remote areas and Ardnamurchan is truly one of the most beautiful and peaceful corners of the world. Turning such a unique property into one of Scotland’s best restaurants with rooms has always been the main goal and our community has always been so supportive. I feel very lucky to be living out what feels like a dream. 

Which piece of advice or words of wisdom stayed with you as you took on this daunting challenge?  

To stay true to myself, to work hard, to lead by example, and to learn something new every day. 

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