Hospitality experts come together to discuss future direction of industry

Leading experts from the hotel and cruise industry sectors are due to speak at the event, on Thursday 26 January.

Topics of discussion include employability and careers, skills, business issues and how the industry may deal with future challenges.

Philip Gibson, senior lecturer in hospitality management, said: “The School of Tourism and Hospitality is delighted to be hosting this one day event in partnership with the Institute of Hospitality. Our one day conference ‘Tomorrow’s World – Hospitality for the Future’ intends to examine the industry’s strengths and to discuss other issues that are both compelling and of critical importance for professionals and future graduates.”

Tony Potter, visiting fellow, president of Braveagle and former CEO and MD of Corinthia Hotels, will open the event in the morning by identifying some of the key challenges and opportunities that his organisation faces when configuring and orientating for the future.

This will be followed by a ‘question time’ debate chaired by Mike Turner, chair of the Devon and Cornwall Institute of Hospitality, with managers from various local hospitality leaders in the South West, before Maria McElvenney, senior recruitment adviser of Carnival UK, presents an insight into the future of cruising.

The afternoon session commences with a presentation from renowned restaurateur Chris Tanner, who will consider skills in hospitality. Immediately after, hospitality and cruise students from the University will present information about their work placements. The afternoon will conclude with a talk on hospitality careers by Kate Allen, careers manager of the Springboard Charity.

Philip adds: “The world continues to be faced with serious economic challenges and yet the hospitality industry remains a powerful entity and a beacon of hope for future prosperity. The industry’s sector skills council, People 1st, states that the future looks bright and draws attention to the way growth is occurring even during these turbulent times.”

The event will take place in Rolle building on January 26 from 10am to 4.30pm. 01752 588946 or email leonjames.thompson [a] plymouth.ac (p) uk

The conference is part of the 150th anniversary celebrations that are being held throughout the year.

ENDS