The UK boss of Best Western is calling on school leavers not to ignore the hospitality sector as future career choice.
The call coincided with the publication of A level results yesterday as the consortium of 275 UK hotels sought to dispel the widely held myth that a hospitality only represents a temporary job opportunity.
Best Western GB chief executive, Rob Payne, said: “I believe there is a perception problem with the industry which means parents will push for their children to consider careers elsewhere before they consider hospitality.
“We need to address this confidence issue with parents, pupils and between ourselves so school leavers know that hospitality can be a professional career, not just a summer job.”
He added: “As an industry we offer an amazing career choice, with entry level positions providing a huge range of experiences for school leavers.
“For those that want to pursue a career in hospitality, management positions are achievable early on and the experience gained can lead to a career anywhere in the world.
“Best Western GB is committed to helping change perceptions. Many of our members are career hoteliers and family businesses who understand what hospitality is like both from a parents’ perspective and a professional one.
“I see a huge opportunity for young people entering the work force and am keen for us to encourage more to consider it.”