Hoteliers in Bristol have outlined plans to tackle the recruitment crisis that has hit the hospitality sector in recent years.
The Bristol Hoteliers Association (BHA) have said Brexit and Covid-19 have impacted staffing for the hospitality industry and recruitment has continued to be a huge challenge post-pandemic.
A new HR forum together with a possible mentoring scheme, and further strengthening ties with the City of Bristol College are among the ideas being implemented by the BHA, and being led by its Head of People, Alison Mansfield.
At its recent AGM, the BHA agreed that stepping up its efforts to encourage young people to consider a career in hospitality is a major priority over the next year.
Read more: Hinkley Point C to help Toolstation workers in Somerset find new jobs
Raphael Herzog, BHA chair, said: “Alongside the cost of utilities and products, our biggest challenge is recruitment, and in particular attracting young people to make a career out of hospitality, rather than see our sector as a ‘gap year’ or short- term option.
“One of the thing we are doing is launching an HR/people forum in July, which will bring together more than a dozen leading HR managers every six-to-eight weeks to drive people success in the city. The forum will work closely with colleges and apprentice providers and organise events to promote the hospitality sector as an exciting industry for people to forge enjoyable and rewarding long-term careers.
“We are also hoping to launch a mentoring scheme, involving ‘shining stars’, and executive leaders, to inspire and encourage others.”
Mr Herzog added: “For the businesses that have survived the perfect storm of Brexit and the pandemic, organisations like the BHA are more important than ever, providing support and a collective voice which continues to campaign to secure the support needed to ensue our sector thrives and continues to make a significant contribution to Bristol’s economy.”
Read next:
Like this story? Why not sign up to get the latest South West business news straight to your inbox.
