HSMAI Europe’s Initiatives to Nurture Future Hospitality Professionals

• HSMAI Europe’s Senior Talent Executive Roundtable, held at The Savoy Hotel, focused on innovative approaches to talent management and career development in the hospitality industry.
• The roundtable highlighted several initiatives, including the FUTURE YOU program, the Commercial Career Start Program, and an expanded mentoring initiative that aims to attract and retain top talent in the industry.

Securing top-tier talent has become a significant challenge for the hospitality industry in the modern era. To address this issue, HSMAI Europe’s Senior Talent Executive Roundtable took place at The Savoy Hotel, London, on 15 January. The event offered an arena for strategic thinking and cooperation, assembling senior executives from HSMAI Europe’s membership to tackle these obstacles and formulate a proactive vision for the industry’s future.

Michael Wierling, Director of HR for Northern Europe at IHG Hotels & Resorts and Chair of the HSMAI Europe People & Culture Advisory Board, chaired the session. Key discussions revolved around innovative talent management strategies, career development, and positioning hospitality as an appealing and feasible career path for future professionals.

HSMAI Europe’s FUTURE YOU initiative, designed to inspire students and young professionals to consider hospitality careers, was recognized as a key focus. The program showcases the plethora of marketing, sales, branding, revenue management, and hotel management opportunities via panel debates, networking opportunities, and industry leaders’ real-life experiences.

Another noteworthy initiative is the Commercial Career Start Program, set to launch in March 2025. This four-month program is designed for final-year students and recent graduates transitioning into their first commercial roles. It bridges the gap between academic learning and real-world employment, offering practical insights and skills for entry-level jobs.

The roundtable also stressed the importance of mentoring in professional development. HSMAI Europe’s Mentor Programme allows members to participate as mentors and mentees. The association plans to expand this initiative, believing that all industry professionals should have access to a mentor, regardless of their career stage.

HSMAI Europe’s Senior Talent Executive Roundtable has ignited important discussions on improving talent management within the hospitality industry. The association is paving the way for the future workforce through its various initiatives, ensuring the sector remains competitive and innovative.

Discover more at HSMAI Europe.