8 October 2024

Leading industry employers have united at the School Summit NI this week to highlight the wide range of rewarding career opportunities available in the hospitality and tourism sector.

Andras Hotels, Beannchor, Hastings Hotels, McComb’s Travel, Mount Charles, Museums NI, Titanic Belfast and Springboard joined the HATS Network to deliver a range of interactive activities to inspire students and teachers from secondary schools across NI and raise the profile of hospitality and tourism careers.

At the two-day careers event attracting up to 6,000 students, representatives from the hospitality and tourism industry brought the sector to life with engaging demonstrations and virtual reality experiences at a stand sponsored by Tourism NI. These activities not only capture students' interest but also highlight the diverse job roles within the industry.

On Monday, the HATS Network hosted an engaging panel discussion, where industry professionals from Titanic Belfast, The Merchant Hotel Belfast and Andras Hotels enthusiastically shared why the hospitality and tourism sector is such an exciting place to work. They revealed their inspiring career stories and discussed various entry routes and development pathways available in the industry. To enhance its appeal and shift perceptions, many businesses highlighted how they are evolving to meet the needs of jobseekers. From flexible working arrangements and opportunities for career progression to attractive salary packages and enticing perks, employers showcased their innovative approaches to creating a high-quality job experience.

Roisin McKee, Project Director for the HATS Network comments on the event:

“The School Summit is a fantastic opportunity to inspire both students and teachers about the incredible career paths available in our industry, filled with potential for growth and progression. This is the second year we’ve attended as a sector collaboration and it’s wonderful to have the continued support of industry employers to provide engaging experiences that best showcase the sector.

“In light of the fierce competition for talent it’s incredibly important we focus on securing the workforce our sector needs by highlighting the rewarding opportunities. I want to extend my gratitude to all the employers who participated and a special thank you to our event sponsor, Tourism NI for their support.”

Jacqueline Canning, Associate Director - Culture and Talent, Andras House Hotel Group adds:

“Andras Hotels are thrilled to work with the HATS Network to be part of the School Summit NI, where we can highlight the diverse career opportunities available in the hospitality industry. We believe young people have incredible potential and the hospitality sector offers a unique platform for growth, development, and success. Whether it's in management, customer service, culinary arts, or operations, we’re eager to share how careers in hospitality can lead to long-term professional fulfilment and personal growth. We look forward to inspiring the next generation to explore the rewarding paths our industry has to offer.”

Carolyn Boyd, Industry Development Manager at Tourism Northern Ireland, said:

“Tourism NI is delighted to support the annual School Summit. Events such as this provide the perfect opportunity to educate students and teachers about the wonderful opportunities on offer within the tourism and hospitality sector.

“Our vibrant industry is powered by a dedicated workforce who are passionate and committed to delivering an exceptional service across a range of career opportunities. With the sector going from strength to strength, there is no better time to showcase the opportunities available and support the next generation as they explore a career within our industry.”

On day 2, National Museums NI, Culloden Estate and Spa, Fitzwilliam Hotel Belfast and Dunadry Hotel and Gardens are set to join a second panel discussion hosted by Springboard, where representatives will recount their career journeys, highlight the essential skills for success and showcase the exciting opportunities available in the sector.