Kildare hotel manager talks career journey

As General Manager of the Westgrove Hotel, Bonnie Reidy brings warmth, experience and a deeply rooted sense of place to one of Kildare’s best-known hospitality destinations. Her journey to the top has been anything but conventional - shaped by hard work, instinct and a genuine love for people.

READ THE LATEST KILDARE NEWS HERE.

Sitting down to reflect on her career, Bonnie smiles as she looks back to where it all began.

“I was the youngest of three - two older brothers and me, the only girl - so I was very much the baby of the family and probably a little bit spoiled too,” she says. “My dad was a headmaster and my mam was a bookmaker, so there was a great mix of discipline and personality at home.”

Growing up in Rathangan, Bonnie describes herself as “a pure-bred Kildare person,” having been born in Kildare Town and never straying far from the county she still calls home.

Her first taste of working life came through family ties, helping out in her mother’s betting office in Rathangan. “It was a bit of a routine - my brothers worked there before me, and then it was my turn,” she recalls. “I’d go in early and help get everything set up for the day. I was only about 15 or 16, so once it was ready, I’d be sent home again. But I loved the buzz of it.”

That early exposure to responsibility would prove invaluable. When Bonnie finished school, she went straight into work, taking up a role at reception in the Hazel Hotel in Monasterevin. “It was a small hotel, so you got involved in everything,” she says. “Front desk, bar, wherever you were needed. That’s really where I got my first taste of hospitality, and I quickly realised I loved it.”

From there, her career evolved steadily. She moved to the Aisling Hotel in Dublin as a supervisor and, recognising the importance of formal training, began studying hotel management in the evenings while working full-time. “It was a busy time, but it gave me a strong foundation,” she explains.

Her path continued upward with a move to The Ambassador Hotel in Kill, where she worked as Restaurant Manager before progressing to Food and Beverage Manager. Each role added another layer of experience, building towards what would become a defining chapter in her career.

In 2012, Bonnie joined the Westgrove Hotel as Food and Beverage Manager. It was a turning point. Over time, her role expanded into other areas of the business, from conferences and events to revenue and weddings. “It gave me a real understanding of the hotel as a whole,” she says.

When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, the hospitality sector faced unprecedented challenges. For Bonnie, it was also a period of change. She was promoted to Deputy General Manager during that time and, shortly after reopening, stepped into the role of General Manager.

Looking back, she describes her career as “completely organic.” “I never had a fixed plan,” she says. “Each step just led to the next.”

Today, her role is as varied as it is demanding. “No two days are ever the same,” she explains. “I have overall responsibility for the day-to-day running of the hotel - making sure every department is working together and delivering the best possible experience for our guests.”

From overseeing accommodation and food and beverage to managing conferences, events and weddings, Bonnie’s focus is firmly on maintaining high standards while supporting her team. “A big part of my role is developing people - making sure they feel confident, valued and supported.”

It’s that people-focused approach that defines her leadership style. “Hospitality is all about relationships,” she says. “Skills can be taught, but attitude and teamwork make the real difference.”

Of all the areas she oversees, weddings hold a special place. “That’s definitely where my passion lies,” she admits. “We guide couples from their first enquiry right through to their big day. Seeing everything come together and watching them relax and enjoy it - that’s incredibly rewarding.”

There have been many highlights along the way, but Bonnie is quick to emphasise that success, for her, is about more than titles. “The most meaningful achievements are always about people and progress,” she says. “Growing within the Westgrove and being trusted to take on more responsibility has been hugely rewarding.”

She also takes pride in the hotel’s continued success, particularly in the weddings and events space. “Winning awards like Wedding Venue of the Year Leinster 2026 is something we’re very proud of,” she says.

Still, the role comes with its challenges. “Recruitment and retention are ongoing issues in hospitality,” she explains. “It can be difficult to attract people into the industry and build consistent teams.”

Despite this, Bonnie remains optimistic, driven by what she describes as the “joy” of her work. “One of the biggest rewards is seeing young staff grow and develop,” she says. “Watching someone gain confidence and progress in their career is really special.”

Reflecting on her journey, she says one of the biggest lessons she has learned is to trust the process. “You don’t need to have everything mapped out from the start,” she says. “If you’re open to opportunities and willing to learn, things will fall into place.”

Her advice to anyone considering a career in hospitality is simple: “You have to love it. It’s a demanding industry, but if you’re passionate, that carries you through. And take pride in what you do - every detail matters.”

Outside of work, Bonnie enjoys following horse racing and local sport, including supporting Kildare GAA and watching rugby when she can. “It’s a nice way to switch off,” she says.

As for the most surprising thing about her? She laughs. “Probably just how many different paths I’ve taken to get here. It’s been very hands-on from the start.”

It’s that hands-on experience, combined with a genuine passion for people, that continues to shape Bonnie Reidy’s approach - and ensures the Westgrove Hotel remains a place where both guests and staff feel truly at home.