Derby students tap into hotel chain’s “talent pipeline”

University of Derby students aiming to be the hospitality industry’s managers of the future have been invited to join a “talent pipeline” set up by one of the largest hotel owners and managers in the UK and Ireland.

Amaris Hospitality has more than 70 hotels trading under leading brands including Jurys Inn, Mercure, MGallery, IBIS Styles, Crowne Plaza, Hilton Hotels & Resorts, Double Tree by Hilton and Hilton Garden Inn.

Students heard how Amaris Hospitality is looking for its future leaders by offering graduate programmes, internships and work experience when the group’s Head of Learning and Development Edward Gallier came to meet them at the University’s Buxton Campus.

“A big thing for us is the talent pipeline,” said Edward. “75 per cent of our general managers have come through the company and we are growing.

“The advantage of getting in with us as part of our internships programme is that it will help students when they come back to us for a full-time job,” said Edward. “That puts you ahead of the pack. We keep in touch because we are building a network for the future.”

Amaris Hospitality has a policy of developing its employees, said Edward: “It’s absolutely true that your people are your brand – first impressions and last impressions are what customers remember.”

Students from all disciplines at the Campus – Hospitality, Culinary Arts, Tourism, Events Management and Spa Management – met Edward to find out what kind of opportunities were on offer.

The events industry is now a large part of hospitality, and the Double Tree by Hilton has one of the largest events spaces in Scotland.

“Links with industry leaders such as Amaris Hospitality ensure that completing a degree with the University of Derby means our graduates not only have an understanding of their industry, but also have readymade connections within it,” said Len Cseh, Culinary Lecturer, who organised the visit.

Find out more about studying Hospitality Management at Derby.