Hotel & Catering Job Opportunities in the UK

By Jane Smallman

Over 1.8 million people are already employed in the hotel, catering, and hospitality industry in the UK. However, year after year until 2010, more than 30,000 extra people will be required at supervisory and management level. This means that job prospects at the present time are excellent. According to the UK Association of Graduate Careers Advisory Services (AGCAS), the hotel, catering, and hospitality industry in Britain must take on many more supervisory and management staff every year for the next 5 years if it is to reach its full potential. This means that job opportunities in the UK for suitably qualified and experienced people should be good.

Why Are Hotel, Catering, Hospitality Job Opportunities in the UK Improving?

AGCAS estimates that over 30,000 new hotel and catering jobs should be created in the UK year after year through 2010. However, despite excellent employment prospects in the hospitality industry, there are currently not enough students enrolled in British hotel and catering management programs to fill all these new jobs. The UK is facing a shortage of qualified and experienced new supervisors and managers. This means that overseas applicants with the right qualifications and experience should be in a good position to find employment.

What Qualifications Do You Need To Work In The UK?

Most employers prefer a candidate who has a degree in a hospitality-related discipline but many are flexible about the type of degree you have provided you have good experience in a hospitality environment. In this industry employers tend to be looking for work experience and key skills as much as qualifications. They also like candidates who are willing to move around and are prepared to work the odd shift patterns that the industry often demands.

Don't forget that work permits are required to gain employment, but check with individual employers for more details on this.

About the Author
Jane Smallman combines freelance writing with running a mountain guiding business with her husband. She has a Bachelor's and Master's degree in the Social Sciences.