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Meet our team

The extraordinary characters of the castle passionately care about each and every guest experience. Our warm and welcoming team provides the perfect introduction to genuine Irish charm, and every one of us is deeply committed to giving the very best in all we do.

Niall Rochford sanding next to a rec chair

Niall Rochford

Managing Director of The Ashford Estate

I am responsible for the day to day running of our iconic 83 bedroom castle. Continually ensuring we meet international standards of excellence, I have a constant guest focus and am always seeking to find new and innovative ways to excel. I am proud to have been awarded 'Hospitality Manager of the Year' by The Irish Times. Together with my dedicated and passionate team we provide genuine and generous Irish hospitality on a grand scale.

Paula Carroll stanfing against a stonewall

Paula Carroll

Strategic Ambassador

It is an absolute privilege to be working with Ashford Castle in a Strategic Ambassadorial role, having worked as Director of Sales & Marketing for 35 years. My role is to connect our guests, clients and travel advisors with the operational team, in a smooth and efficient manner to ensure that each guest has a truly memorable experience. Our team are warm, compassionate, caring, genuine and enthusiastic about delivering and living the Red Carnation ethos.

Regina O'Donoghue

Director of Marketing

I joined Ashford Castle 18 years ago as a Groups Coordinator and was promoted to the position of Sales Office Manager in 2017, with a remit that extended to the Castle’s sales and marketing functions. I am now delighted to be taking on the position of Director of Marketing where I will be responsible for safe-guarding and further promoting the Ashford Estate as the best resort in Ireland and among the finest in the world.

Shane Brett

Director of Sales

I joined Ashford Castle back in 2015 and have been part of the Ashford family for over 8 years. My journey began as a Guest Services Manager, giving me insight into the operations and needs of our guests. Later, I transitioned into the Sales Team and I'm delighted to have now been appointed Director of Sales. As I manage and oversee the entire sales operation I look forward to continuing to nurture our relationships with our clients and tourism partners.

Liam Finnegan

Executive Chef

Since the early years of my 23-year career I have long admired Ashford Castle and the philosophy of using local, home-grown, and organic produce. Having worked in a number of prestigious restaurants in both Ireland and the UK, including Michelin Star restaurants and triple-A Rosette hotels, I have developed a passion for fine dining. By combining old-school-style-cooking with creative flair, I look forward to furthering my creation of innovative and exciting dishes at Ashford Castle.

A headshot of Lisa Toomey

Lisa Toomey

Director of Wellness & Operations

The food and beverage offering at Ashford Castle encompasses a number of unique experiences and I am very excited to join the team with a pivotal role in one of the world’s top luxury hotels. In the hospitality industry, we all strive for excellence when it comes to providing the best for our guests, so I am delighted to be working with a team who are constantly recognised for exceeding guest expectations.

A headshot Catherine Kenny

Catherine Kenny

Rooms Division Manager

The Castle, our guests and the team here make Ashford a very special place to work and I truly enjoy every day - ensuring guests’ comfort and needs are anticipated and nothing is left in doubt requires a keen attention to detail, and the warmth and friendliness of our guests make my job an absolute pleasure.

Robert Bowe standing in the restaurant in front of a drape

Robert Bowe

Restaurant and Wine Program Manager

I have worked at Ashford Castle since 1987 - starting as a Chef de Rang before quickly moving through the ranks as Room Service Manager, Sommelier and now as Restaurant Manager of the George V Dining Room and Wine Program Manager. Ashford Castle has been an icon for Irish hospitality with a wonderful food and wine experience for nearly 75 years and I am proud to be a part of it.

Noli Alngohuro In Prince Of Wales Bar with barmen in the background

Noli Alngohuro

Bar & Lounge Manager

My love affair with Ashford Castle began in 2000 and I am now proud to be the Manager of the Prince of Wales Cocktail Bar and The Drawing Room, providing a welcoming space for guests to relax and enjoy their favourite tipple, a light bite or a pint of Guinness! Originally from The Philippines, it was not difficult for me to find Ashford as my 'home away from home' because at its core it fosters good family values, ethics and the importance of working as a team.

A headshot Chris Murphy

Chris Murphy

Director of Food & Beverage

I am excited to have joined the fabulous team at Ashford Castle, a property steeped in history and carefully restored to its former glory. It is a hotel admired by many in the industry as well as its returning guests. I look forward to being one of the custodians that have the pleasure to provide guests with lasting memories.

Paula Stakelum

Director of Chocolate and Patisserie

I was always cooking at home from a very early age. I try to create a great story behind every creation - I love stories and use them to connect with people. I’m very lucky to be surrounded by incredible people here at Ashford, who are all are very inspiring and they ensure I have the resources required to create with passion. When our wonderful owner, Mrs Tollman visits, we sometimes create desserts together. These moments are very special to me.