Network Next Generation initiative tackles recruitment crisis

A new industry initiative aims to tackle the recruitment crisis by bringing together travel employers, mentors, educators and students.

 

Network Next Generation has been founded by David Clare, managing director of the Business Travel Network.

 

The initial focus is on business travel but it aims to encompass the whole travel sector, including leisure outbound, inbound and domestic markets.

 

It intends to address the “aspirations, culture and motivations” of younger generations joining, or soon to be entering, the UK workforce – Gen Z, born mid to late 1990s-2010, and Generation Alpha, born 2010 onwards.

 

A series of events, learning experiences and digital content will be designed “to foster understanding, break down barriers and highlight the global possibilities offered by a career in the travel sector”.

 

Clare said: “The UK travel sector is facing a silent crisis that risks impacting the whole industry deeply if not addressed in a co-ordinated way.

 

“The evidence is clear that Gen Z and Generation Alpha are significantly different to previous generations entering the workforce; they were born in the digital age, and have a significantly different outlook on sustainability, diversity and inclusion, the use of technology in their lives and work-life balance.

 

“The knowledge and experience of travel employers in this area is patchy at best and we aim to change that.”

 

The official launch of Network Next Generation will take place in September, with an industry event in London attended by senior leaders, future talent and changemakers from across the sector.

 

Abby Peston, founder of myexec.uk and previous chief executive of the Focus Travel Partnership, said: “The industry is stronger when we collaborate. I’m proud to support Network Next Generation – it’s time we take shared responsibility to ensure we’re not only developing future talent but also listening to and learning from them. This isn’t just good for business, it’s essential for survival.”

 

Suzanne Horner, global chief executive for Gray Dawes Travel, commented: “I am delighted to support Network Next Generation. This industry has given me 40 amazing years and I call on all my peers to join us and give back. 

 

“I joined the Travel Industry at 17 as a trainee and never looked back – let’s create these amazing opportunities for the next generation and more.”

 

Mel Phaure, founder of Blue Cube Travel, added: “Our industry still falls under the radar even at inception, where young people could spend up to five years at college and university studying travel and tourism and still come out not knowing a thing about corporate travel. We need to promote from within and if anyone can do this Dave can.”