The team at The Leddie is celebrating a double success after General Manager Robert Clark secured a prestigious leadership scholarship from HIT Scotland, while rising culinary talent Sam Currie has been shortlisted for Young Chef of the Year at the 2026 Scottish Excellence Awards.
Robert Clark, General Manager of The Leddie, which has been selected for HIT Scotland’s highly regarded Art of Leadership Scholarship, which will see leading hospitality professionals travel to Lausanne, Switzerland in April 2026 to take part in an intensive leadership development programme designed to nurture the industry’s next generation of talent.
Clark, who has led The Leddie since its reopening in 2024, brings more than 16 years’ experience in Scotland’s hospitality industry to the role. He previously served as General Manager at The Scran & Scallie, part of The Kitchin Group, and The Bonnie Badger, giving him strong ties to East Lothian and Edinburgh’s food and hospitality scene.
The accolade comes as this award-winning East Lothian hotel also celebrates the success of chef Sam Currie, who has been shortlisted for Young Chef of the Year at the upcoming Scottish Excellence Awards.
Since joining The Leddie as a junior chef in 2024, Sam has quickly established himself as one of the kitchen’s most promising talents. Known for his calm approach under pressure, refined technique and instinctive understanding of flavour, he has already played a role in developing seasonal dishes that champion local Scottish produce.
Together, the recognitions highlight the strength of talent and leadership within The Leddie team as the Aberlady hotel, which is only 30 mins from Edinburgh and minutes from Gullane on the east Lothian coast, continues to build its reputation for outstanding hospitality and food.
Robert Clark, General Manager of The Leddie, said:
“Hospitality is ultimately about people – supporting teams, creating opportunities and delivering memorable experiences for guests. Being awarded this scholarship from HIT Scotland is a real honour, and I’m looking forward to learning from industry peers and bringing fresh ideas back to The Leddie and our team.”
Sam Currie added:
“Being shortlisted for Young Chef of the Year is incredibly exciting and a real confidence boost. Working at The Leddie has given me the chance to learn from a brilliant team and develop my skills every day. I’m passionate about using great Scottish ingredients and continuing to grow as a chef.”
