Thirteen trainee and assistant managers from Hastings Hotels have been selected for the group’s ninth annual Management Ambassador Programme.
Developed in partnership with Ulster University, the six-month programme focuses on enhancing participants’ management skills in customer service and staff teams within the hospitality industry, and offers a Level 4 Accredited CPD qualification.
It has been successful in developing key managers, including three general managers and contributes to the retention of trained and motivated staff – crucial for meeting guest expectations and enhancing their experience.
“We are very passionate about investing in our employees. The main aim of the Management Ambassador Programme is to support the continuous development of our managers as we know this helps with the success of their careers and indeed the overall success of Hastings Hotels,” said James McGinn, Managing Director of Hastings Hotels .
“We work closely with Ulster University to review and enhance the modules every year and it was great to launch the 2023 programme at the new Academy restaurant on the Belfast campus last month.
“Three of our current General Managers, Niall Burns of the Culloden Estate & Spa, Andy McNeill of the Europa Hotel and Scott Weatherup of Ballygally Castle have all taken part in the programme, showing the calibre of managers it helps develop and the dedication we have in realising the potential of individuals.
“The last number of years have been very challenging for the tourism and hospitality industry due to the skills shortages and staff retention obstacles.
“However, the opportunities and training that we offer across the group help with the retention of trained and motivated staff, which is key to ensuring that we meet the guest expectation and enhance their experience.”
Mairead McEntee, Associate Head of the Department of Hospitality and Tourism Management at Ulster University, said it is delighted to be working with Hastings Hotels to offer the bespoke management programme.
“The Management Ambassador Programme is tailored specifically to Hastings Hotels’ business to aid in the continuous professional development of key management skills for its staff.
“With participants having the opportunity to obtain a Level 4 accredited CPD qualification, not only does it enhance the future career prospects of its learners on an individual level, it will also help the company reach their business objectives and remain competitive.”
