Jess Sinnott wins ‘Tourism 40 Under 40’ Award

We are delighted to share that Jess Sinnott, Acting General Manager at Johnstown Castle Estate, Museum and Gardens, Wexford has been named the inaugural winner of the Tourism 40 Under 40 Award.

The award was presented at a special finale at Dublin’s Convention Centre, organised by Business Plus and the Irish Tourism Industry Confederation (ITIC). The Tourism 40 Under 40 initiative celebrates the next generation of talent helping to shape Ireland’s tourism industry, recognising 40 outstanding young professionals working across the sector.

Jess’s career with the Irish Heritage Trust at Johnstown Castle is a fantastic example of the opportunities available to develop and progress within Ireland’s tourism and heritage sector. She joined the team in 2019 as a café assistant and has since progressed to her current role as Acting General Manager.

Her nomination recognised her contribution to developing the volunteer programme at Johnstown Castle, enhancing the visitor experience and encouraging more young people to consider careers in heritage tourism.

Reflecting on the award, Jess said:

“I am delighted and honoured to be the inaugural recipient of ITIC’s 40 Under 40 award. Being nominated was a wonderful surprise in itself, but then to win the award was incredibly special. I’m very proud to be the first recipient and very grateful to everyone at the Irish Heritage Trust and Johnstown Castle who have supported and encouraged me along the way.”

Jess’s achievement is a wonderful recognition of her hard work, leadership and commitment to tourism and heritage, and we are delighted to see her contribution recognised at national level.