Claridge’s hosted a glittering ceremony last night, where Fleming was recognised for his enthusiasm in providing the ultimate front of house restaurant experience.
Fleming said: “It’s an honour and a privilege to be the scholar for 2014 and to follow in the footsteps of last year’s winner Rebecca Dibben.
“I’m excited to embark on the many fantastic placements afforded by the scholarship and to work alongside industry greats, who I never thought I would meet, let alone work with.
“I hope that the scholarship inspires others to pursue a career in such a dynamic and rewarding industry.”
Alastair Storey, chairman of lead sponsor BaxterStorey, said: “We have a talented industry full of creativity and passion, which we celebrate through the scholarship.
“It’s gifted individuals like James and our other entrants who help to create memorable dining-out experiences and they are the future rising stars of Britain’s restaurants.”
He said that the strength of this year’s entry cohort meant the judges had enlarged the national final to allow in seven people rather than six.
And as well as naming a winner, they had decided to celebrate two others as well – Devid Isabella of the Ritz was highly commended, while Adam Hersey of Brocket Hall Gold Club was cited as the finalist ‘with the greatest potential’.
Fleming will now receive a year of expert mentoring from industry greats such as Diego Masciaga at The Waterside Inn and Emmanuel Landre and Silvano Giraldin at Le Gavroche.
He will have the opportunity to work with the Royal Household at a state banquet, the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group in Europe and visit Champagne to enhance his skills in all aspects of front of house service and customer experience.
As an ambassador for the scholarship, he will be expected to be a leading example of a successful career in front of house hospitality and work to remind people of the importance of great service.
Ahead of yesterday’s ceremony, seven finalists battled it out at The Connaught, Mayfair in a final attempt to impress the elite judging panel led by Edward Griffiths, deputy master of the household at Buckingham Palace.
Willy Bauer, chairman of AB Hotels and founder of the Gold Service Scholarship, added: “I’m delighted that James was chosen as the Scholar for 2014. His passion and enthusiasm is exactly what this industry is all about and his ability to provide an impeccable, seamless service is second to none.
“This competition is all about giving young people the opportunity to learn among some of the best in the business to ensure that ultimately, front of house professionals continue to raise the bar in hospitality and the customer service experience.”
The next Gold Service Scholarship competition will be open for entries in September 2014. For details visit www.thegoldservicescholarship.co.uk.