The David Campbell Trophy is the award for the AICR World’s Best Receptionist. The late David Campbell became Chef de Reception at The Ritz Hotel, Paris, after gaining a wealth of International experience.

In memory of David and in acknowledgement of his dedication and passion to the industry, the International Receptionist of the Year Competition was formed, with a Trophy designed and sponsored by the Paris AICR section, to be presented each year.

Marcel Elbaz, Graham Bamford, Annie Boslem and the AICR International Committee members, worked together with the International College of Hotel Management in Adelaide, Australia, to establish the rules and format, launching the Competition in 1995 and has gained respect of hoteliers and sponsors globally.

The Competition grows from strength to strength each year and has gained the respect of Hoteliers and Sponsors. It meets its objective as a training tool for the younger generation and the future AICR and the Hospitality Industry, with the emphasis on “Amicale”.

Since 2021 and with the support of digital media, the competition has become accessible for excellent receptionists from all around the World. The David Campbell Trophy has been rebranded to the AICR World’s Best Receptionist competition and remains the ultimate recognition for service excellence in the field of hotel reception.