By Denis Sheehan 31 July 2021
On Monday 26 July, I met with a friend who shared the sad news that Sara Jayne Stanes OBE had passed over the weekend. He was a friend and colleague of Sara’s and was understandably upset.
He was also partly coordinating the news of her death and as such was communicating with a number of people who were close to Sara to ensure the announcement was in keeping with what she would have wanted.
I can’t claim to have known Sara well but knew her well enough to want to write something considered. I knew of her significant impact on so many people.
We had met at industry events on numerous occasions, and Sara was always charming. She’d often present considered and erudite views on a wide manner of issues. We occasionally exchanged emails where her opinions were offered and gratefully received in relation to a number of industry challenges. Whether we agreed or disagreed on a particular point, Sara made hers with hospitality’s widest interests forefront.
I remember one conversation where Sara drew on decades of experience reflecting on hospitality’s need to be more hospitable to our own, the people we work alongside. It was important to her that hospitality was equally hospitable to colleagues as guests. Possibly more than any other ‘work’ conversation, Sara’s thoughts that day shaped my writing.
Many accolades from across the hospitality industry have been served, and all reflect the esteem with which Sara was held by her peers, some can be seen through the links below.
Royal Academy of Culinary Arts.
Rest in Peace Sarah Jayne Stanes OBE