ANGELLA Richards-Farrier, Sandals Montego Bay’s newly minted Manager of the Year (MVP) and a 22-year hospitality veteran, is not just a bar manager, she’s a force of nature and a guiding light at her resort.

Hailing from Lincoln, Manchester, Richards-Ferrier, who is affectionately known as Miss Angie, is the product of a journey characterised by resilience, determination, and unwavering passion for service.

Before beginning her illustrious career in hospitality Miss Angie was a data entry clerk, which assisted her greatly in honing her organisational skills and attention to detail.

“It was my entry into hospitality at a small resort in Negril and that experience which truly ignited my love for serving others, however,” she said.

Starting as a cashier in the food and beverage department, Richards-Ferrier’s leadership abilities and dedication to excellence quickly set her apart and allowed for her steady ascent up the ranks to dining room supervisor.

She was passionate about expanding her hospitality career and so began her tenure at Beaches Negril. This marked a pivotal moment in her career. From a casual employee in the bar to a supervisor, and a later promotion to a management position at Sandals Montego Bay her journey has been fuelled by relentless ambition and a thirst for knowledge. She wholeheartedly embraced the on-the-job training for which Sandals is known and constantly sought opportunities to expand her skill sets and expertise.

Over the years she amassed a treasure trove of memories but one of her fondest revolves around the planning and participation of her team in her first Jamaica Product Exchange function in 2016.

“I remember feeling so nervous leading up to the event. With a crowd of up to 500 esteemed guests in attendance the occasion was a resounding success and under my guidance the bar department truly sparkled, earning commendations from my superiors and cementing my reputation as a capable manager within a traditionally male-dominated space,” she said.

Richards-Ferrier attributes much of her success to the training and support she received at Sandals. From certifications in beverage management from American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute to leadership and customer-focused programmes, her dedication to personal and professional growth knows no bounds. She believes in leading by example, and fosters a culture of excellence and continuous learning within her team.

As a female bar manager who has held her own for almost a decade Richards-Ferrier’s advice to aspiring women in the industry is simple yet profound: “Embrace the opportunities available and be willing to make sacrifices.” She also emphasised the importance of planning, proactive communication, and maintaining a positive attitude — even in the face of challenges.

Despite the demands of her role Richards-Ferrier also understands the importance of work-life balance, and when asked how she has managed to so gracefully accomplish this, she provided a gem of advice.

“I place a lot of emphasis on empowering my team to confidently manage operations in my absence, celebrating successes, and fostering strong partnerships with vendors and colleagues.”

Richards-Ferrier also takes pride in grooming and mentoring her team members. From bartenders to supervisors, she has played an essential role in the development and success of numerous individuals within the organisation — individuals such as Dandre Dockery, a young bartender who was groomed by Richards-Ferrier and is now the assistant bar manager at Sandals’ newest resort in Jamaica, Sandals Dunn’s River. Another of her mentees is Camille Spence who started as a beach server and is now a bar supervisor at Sandals Montego Bay; and Shinton Dixon, once a supervisor who Richards-Ferrier has groomed into her current role as assistant bar manager.

Richards-Farrier’s decorated journey within Sandals is a testament to the transformative power of passion, perseverance, and service. Through her steadfast pursuit of perfection and unyielding loyalty to her team she continues to inspire and uplift all those fortunate enough to cross her path at Sandals Montego Bay.