Business News

“I am fortunate to love what I do, in the place that I love” – 60 seconds with: Deirdre McGlone, Harvey’s Point

By Business & Finance
29 May 2018
Deirdre McGlone, Harvey's Point, hotel, accommodation
Deirdre McGlone, Managing Director, Harvey’s Point

Deirdre McGlone, Managing Director, Harvey’s Point, talks of running a hotel and keeping the award-winning name on trend.


Q. What was your first job?

My first job was working in a bar at the age of thirteen, in my local town of Ballintra, outside Donegal Town. I truly enjoyed serving pints and having conversations with the old farmers. Little did I know that this was the beginning of my career in the catering/ hospitality business.

Q. What would you regard as your greatest achievement to date?

Being awarded the coveted title of Donegal Person of the Year 2016. This was the highlight of my professional and personal career (to date!).

Q. In three words or less, how do you define success?

Empowering my team.

Q. What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

Live life to the full. Enjoy the moment.

Q. How do you motivate yourself and your staff?

I am fortunate to love what I do, in the place that I love and with the people I love. In relation to my team, we have a strong, familial but professional connection. We all share a culture of caring, teamwork and customer excellence.

Q. If you could step into the shoes of one business person for a day, who would it be and why?

Marissa Carter – CEO of the top-selling international beauty brand Cocoa Brown Tan. Firstly, they would be fabulous shoes! Secondly, and most importantly, I greatly admire Marissa, because in addition to being a highly-successful woman in business, she is humble and down to earth. She also gives back in terms of her support of other women in business in the Going For Growth community.

Q. How do you relax?

I love walking in the beautiful hills of Donegal and a glass of fine wine does the trick, too!

Q. What’s your motto?

Work hard. Keep learning. Have fun.

Q. What are your aspirations for the future of the business?

We intend to celebrate our thirty years in business milestone next year with a big party and the launch of a book, Thirty Years of Welcomes, outlining the history of Harvey’s Point and showcasing our team – the people who share our story and our success. There is potential for further development in terms of additional bedrooms and a nature/wellness facility for guests.

In relation to my team, we have a strong, familial but professional connection. We all share a culture of caring, teamwork and customer excellence.

Harvey’s Point is an multi-award-winning hotel situated in Donegal:

  • Trivago’s No. 1 Hotel in Ireland 2016–2018
  • 2 AA Rosettes 2017-2018
  • TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards  No. 1 in Ireland 2013–2017
  • Georgina Campbell Hotel of the Year 2017
  • AA Red Star Award 2017