Inn Collection Group launches new training academy for local hospitality workers

The Inn Collection Group has launched a training academy to fast track talent and support staff to further their careers in the hospitality sector.

The group has teamed up with hospitality and catering training firm, Branikov Training, to create its bespoke Innspiration Training Academy.

As well as helping to progress the next generation of managers, the programme includes training for all staff, from those with zero qualifications to degree level.

Operations manager, Paul Brown, said: “Customer experience - whether our guests are dining, drinking or staying with us - is at the heart of all that we do.

“Fundamental to this is having a great team of enthusiastic, knowledgeable and trained people with a genuine desire to deliver a customer experience that is second to none. That’s why we have invested in the Innspiration academy.”

Training is delivered to staff via the Innspiration e-learning portal, targeted monthly workshops, on-the-job training and product showcases.

Paul added: “Hospitality tends to be seen as a stop-gap solution rather than a long-term career option.

“The Inn Collection Group ethos is to promote from within and we have a proven track record of supporting our people to rise through the ranks, such as our managing director, Sean Donkin who started with the company as a general manager.

“By tapping in to and nurturing bright sparks from grass roots stage right through to the highest level within our organisation we have created a culture in which individuals want to foster a career with us. It’s a great position to be in.”

William Winstanley is a trainee assistant manager at the group’s Lindisfarne Inn near Berwick-upon-Tweed. He is aiming to become a general manager within the group.

Currently undergoing Level 2 team member in hospitality, William commented: “I’m getting so much from the course because it is work related. It’s a great opportunity. I don’t think there are many companies that give you opportunities like this.

“What you learn from the course really does rub off into your day-to-day work. As well as being mentored and inspired by my manager, the programme really helps you progress with your staff and customer interactions.

“It is helping me learn and fully understand how to run a pub business to its full and best capacity. The training gives me more incentive to work towards my goal of becoming a general manager.”