Member Article

Hotel group launch training academy and 3,000 jobs

InterContinental Hotel Group has announced it is creating nearly 3,000 jobs across the UK, along with the launch of a hospitality training academy in London.

Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg this morning attended the launch at the soon to open Holiday Inn London Stratford City.

He said: “It’s fantastic to see IHG growing its UK business and creating 3,000 new jobs. The British service sector is world-beating, and will soon welcome millions of guests to enjoy London 2012.

“But reaching this gold standard needs investment in people. IHG are leading the way in their sector through a tailored academy programme.

“It’s an added investment that means young people can learn the skills for the industry in a local college, and then start their career in a local hotel.

“This shows real investment in our future workforce, is a huge boost for jobs across the country, but crucially will see local people benefit from training and work.”

IHG operates brands such as Crowne Plaza, Hotel Indigo and Holiday Inn, which is official hotel provider to the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The new hospitality training academy has been developed in partnership with Newham College, in one of the Games’ host boroughs, and forms part of IHG’s global initiative to invest in the recruitment and training of employees.

Students will take a six-month tailored course that combines the best of the Hospitality Skills Diploma NVQ with four weeks practical work experience in a hotel.

Two new hotels are to be built in time for London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, and successful students will be candidates for some of the 140 new jobs created by their opening.

Richard Solomons, IHG’s Chief Executive said, “Hospitality is a great business to be in and working in hotels offers people exciting career paths for the future.

“We’re pleased to be working with our hotel owners to create jobs and training opportunities in the UK at this time.

“The IHG Academy programme allows us to join with local education bodies in the UK and around the world to provide real-life skills and enhance employment prospects for local people. IHG benefits by having access to talent from the neighbourhoods near our hotels.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Tom Keighley .