Vote for the World's Best Receptionist

Vote for the World's Best Receptionist
Celebrating Excellence in Hospitality
Join us in honouring the exceptional professionals who create unforgettable first impressions and deliver world-class service every day. The AICR World's Best Receptionist competition celebrates the art of hospitality and the dedicated individuals who embody excellence at the front desk.
Cast Your Vote
The Amicalists' Choice Award: Your Voice, Their Victory
The Amicalists' Choice Award, powered by SRate, offers a unique opportunity for association members to directly influence the World's Best Receptionist competition. This award highlights the subjective qualities – presentation, first impression, and overall appeal – that truly make a receptionist shine.
Personal Recognition
Members vote based on their personal experience and impression, celebrating the unique flair each candidate brings to the role.
Enhanced Engagement
It encourages active participation from the AICR community, driving members to competition venues and fostering a vibrant atmosphere.
Competitor Support
Your vote provides invaluable encouragement and recognition, validating the hard work and dedication of every receptionist vying for the title.
This award is a testament to the power of community, allowing members to champion their favorite candidate and acknowledge the exceptional talent within the hospitality industry.
Steps to Voting for the Amicalists' Choice Award
The Amicalists' Choice Award involves a dynamic two-stage voting process, designed to engage our community and celebrate excellence. Here’s how you can cast your valuable vote:
Stage 1: Video Introductions
Votes begin with candidate introduction videos shared on social media. Visit the S-RATE Competition Page to assess their video presentation and overall impression, leaving your feedback to influence the competition.
This stage aims to spread awareness, familiarize participants with the S-RATE app, and prepare for the next voting phase.
Stage 2: Live Competition Voting
The second stage involves live voting at the World's Best Receptionist Competition (WBRC), utilizing S-Rate's geolocation functionality. Cast a one-time opinion based on any observed task.
This encourages visits to competition halls, allows AICR members and hotel guests to support finalists, and celebrates more winners with a valued prize.
What is the AICR World's Best Receptionist Competition?
Prestigious Global Contest
A distinguished international competition recognizing outstanding receptionists for their exceptional service excellence and front office expertise across the hospitality industry.
Rich Heritage Since 1995
Founded nearly three decades ago, the competition honors the enduring legacy of David Campbell, the legendary Chef de Reception at The Ritz Paris.
Annual Celebration
Held each year with a spectacular live event bringing together hotel managers and front office experts from every corner of the world.
The competition has become the gold standard for recognizing front desk excellence, attracting participants from the world's most prestigious hotels and resorts. Each year, talented receptionists demonstrate their mastery of guest service, problem-solving, and the art of creating memorable experiences.
The Legacy of the David Campbell Trophy
A Symbol of Excellence
Named after David Campbell, a true hospitality icon whose entire career was dedicated to service excellence and mentoring the next generation of reception professionals. His unwavering commitment to perfection set the standard for the industry.
The trophy represents more than recognition—it embodies passion, professionalism, and the highest standards in hotel reception. Winners join an elite group of hospitality professionals who have demonstrated exceptional skill and dedication.
1
1995
Competition founded in memory of David Campbell's 
2
2000s
Expansion across European AICR sections
3
2010s
Global reach with new international sections joining
4
2021
Digital transformation enabling worldwide virtual participation
5
Today
Respected international competition with 18 sections globally
Meet the 2025 Champion: Joël Darfeuille
A New Standard of Excellence
Joël Darfeuille from the prestigious Fairmont Monte-Carlo was crowned World's Best Receptionist in March 2025, captivating judges with his exceptional blend of warmth, professionalism, and genuine passion for hospitality. His victory represents years of dedication to perfecting the art of guest service.
His inspiring story exemplifies the dedication and heart behind the profession, demonstrating that true hospitality comes from a genuine desire to create meaningful connections and memorable experiences for every guest.
Five Secrets to World-Class Hospitality
Sincere Welcomes: Authentic warmth that makes every guest feel valued
Anticipating Needs: Reading subtle cues before guests even ask
Stress Management: Remaining calm and composed under pressure
Deep Local Knowledge: Being an expert guide to the destination
Positive Energy: Radiating enthusiasm that elevates every interaction
"Excellence in hospitality is not just about following procedures—it's about creating genuine human connections and making every guest feel like they're coming home." — Joël Darfeuille
Global Reach: A Network of Excellence
The AICR (Association Internationale des Chefs de Réception) has built an impressive international presence, creating a truly global community of front office professionals dedicated to excellence. This network connects hospitality professionals across continents, fostering collaboration and sharing best practices.
18 Global Sections
Active chapters across Australia, France, UAE, United Kingdom, Singapore, Germany, Switzerland, Poland, Austria, Monaco, and more countries worldwide.
National Competitions
Each section hosts its own national competition, with winners advancing to represent their country at the prestigious international finals.
United Community
The competition fosters a global community of hospitality professionals united by shared values, traditions, and commitment to service excellence.
Highlights from Past Competitions
1
2024 - Sopot, Poland
Winner: Jędrzej Król, Sofitel Grand Sopot
A stunning victory showcasing Polish hospitality excellence on the international stage, with exceptional performance in guest interaction scenarios.
2
2023 - Doha, Qatar
Winner: Representative from Mandarin Oriental Doha
Held in the luxurious setting of Qatar's capital, celebrating Middle Eastern hospitality standards and innovation.
3
2022 - Berchtesgaden, Germany
Winner: Champion from Kempinski Hotel
Set against the beautiful Bavarian Alps, highlighting traditional German precision and service excellence.
4
2019 - London, UK
Winner: Professional from The Connaught London
A prestigious competition held in one of the world's most iconic hospitality cities, showcasing British elegance and service.
Each year's event is hosted in prestigious cities including Athens, Paris, Zurich, and Doha, providing winners with unforgettable experiences and opportunities to network with industry leaders. These competitions have become legendary gatherings where the best of the best come together to celebrate hospitality excellence.
How the Competition Works
National Selection
Candidates compete in their home countries through local AICR sections, demonstrating exceptional skills and knowledge of hospitality standards.
Skills Assessment
Participants demonstrate their expertise through carefully designed live role-play scenarios evaluated by a distinguished panel of industry experts and hotel managers.
Expert Evaluation
Judges assess service excellence, creative problem-solving, communication skills, professionalism, cultural awareness, and ability to handle challenging guest situations.
International Finals
National champions advance to compete on the world stage, representing their countries and hotels at the prestigious annual international event.
Digital Innovation
Since 2021, the competition has embraced digital transformation, expanding accessibility through virtual participation options. This innovation allows talented receptionists worldwide to compete regardless of geographical barriers, democratizing access to this prestigious opportunity.
Evaluation Criteria
Guest service excellence and interpersonal skills
Problem-solving under pressure
Professional communication abilities
Technical knowledge and efficiency
Cultural sensitivity and language proficiency
Why Vote? Your Voice Matters
Support Rising Stars
Your vote directly supports talented professionals who are shaping the future of hospitality and setting new standards for guest service excellence across the industry.
Celebrate Dedication
Engage with inspiring stories and celebrate the remarkable dedication, skill, and passion behind every warm welcome that makes travel experiences truly memorable.
Promote Excellence
Help crown the next World's Best Receptionist and actively promote excellence across the hospitality industry, raising standards and inspiring the next generation.
Make a Difference Today
Every vote counts in recognizing the unsung heroes of hospitality—the frontline professionals who create first impressions, solve problems with grace, and ensure every guest feels valued and welcome. Your participation helps shine a spotlight on this vital profession.
By casting your vote, you're not just selecting a winner; you're acknowledging the critical role receptionists play in the global hospitality ecosystem and encouraging continued excellence in customer service worldwide.
Join the AICR Community
Exclusive Networking
Connect with hospitality leaders and front office professionals worldwide through exclusive events, conferences, and digital platforms designed to foster meaningful relationships.
Education & Development
Access world-class training programs, workshops, and educational resources that enhance your skills and keep you at the forefront of hospitality trends and best practices.
Career Advancement
Unlock career development opportunities through mentorship programs, job placement services, and recognition that elevates your professional profile in the industry.
Create a Local Section
Interested in bringing AICR to your country? Learn how to establish or join a local AICR section and become part of this prestigious international network. We provide comprehensive support and guidance throughout the process.
Global Support
Support initiatives that raise industry standards, promote hospitality careers globally, and advocate for the recognition of front office professionals as essential contributors to the guest experience.
Membership Benefits: Join thousands of hospitality professionals worldwide who benefit from AICR membership, including access to exclusive events, educational resources, networking opportunities, and the chance to participate in or judge future competitions.
Ready to Vote or Become a Candidate?
Your Journey Starts Here
Cast Your Vote
Click here to Vote
Cast your vote for the World's Best Receptionist and help recognize exceptional talent in hospitality service excellence.
Become a Candidate
Interested in competing new year? Contact us and discover how to showcase your skills on the international stage and represent your country in this prestigious global competition.
Stay Connected
Follow AICR social media channels for live event updates, inspiring success stories, competition news, and exclusive content from the global hospitality community.
Whether you're a hospitality professional looking to compete, a hotel manager seeking to nominate your star receptionist, or simply someone who appreciates exceptional service, there's a place for you in the AICR community. Together, we celebrate the professionals who make every stay unforgettable and elevate the standards of hospitality worldwide.
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