Hilton hotels says it wants to take on 1,000 new starters in the UK and Ireland this year – after filling almost 4,000 positions in 2021.
The hotel group said the numbers include 350 new apprentices, having taken on almost 100 last year.
It said the sort of jobs on offer included mixologists, beauty therapists, apprentice chefs and housekeepers.
The business said it was anticipating strong growth as global travel restrictions eased, and was also opening nine new hotels this year including Hampton by Hilton Bath City, Hilton Garden Inn Silverstone and Lost Property St. Paul’s London. There will also be new premises in Dublin, Sheffield, Peterborough, London and Warwick.
Like many sectors the UK hospitality industry has been affected by some foreign workers leaving the UK and heading back home due to Brexit and Covid-19.
Back in the autumn it was reported that three quarters of pub and restaurant bosses were increasing pay to attract staff as a worker shortage continues to hamper the sector’s recovery.
A survey of 200 senior executives from across the hospitality industry found that one in six jobs lay vacant, and 96 per cent of business leaders were seeing staffing shortages for some roles.
Around 76 per cent of respondents to the survey – by hospitality marketing specialists CGA – said they had offered better pay as part of their retention strategies.
Hilton said it had posts ranging from entry level opportunities as food and beverage assistants, to managerial roles such as conference and banquet directors.
Julie Baker, UK and Ireland vice president of operations at Hilton said: “We are utterly thrilled to see the green shoots of recovery and welcome all prospective candidates to apply online, and find out more about the many varied opportunities available.”
She said Hilton’s apprenticeship programme provided a sound footing in the skills and knowledge for a career in hospitality before gaining a nationally recognised diploma.
Rabee Bond, 19, began his apprenticeship at Hilton Watford and now works as a food and beverage team leader.
He said: “Working at Hilton, I’m learning something new every day. Whether it’s how to speak to guests or understanding hotel operations, I’m constantly improving.
“The best thing about the Hilton apprenticeship is the training we receive. I’m mentored by the best in the business who genuinely care about my personal and professional development, and would go above and beyond to ensure I’m growing.”
