A new employer commitment has been launched today in an endeavour to change the wider perception of the sector and commit industry to work together and become an ‘employer of choice’, providing good quality training, work-life balance and support to their people.

Recruiting and retaining people has long been a challenge for the hospitality industry. The sector faces a number of misconceptions, such as low pay, long unsociable hours, limited opportunities to develop and not offering long-term careers.

Compounding this challenge is the evolving labour market, which means the industry is competing for talent in a smaller pool so businesses need to be highly effective and flexible in how they attract, engage and interact with their teams.

‘Our Hospitality Commitment’ – a voluntary code of conduct developed by People 1st International, leading employers, colleges and industry partners – launches today in an attempt to combat these challenges. The ‘commitment’ covers critical areas, such as working hours and learning and development as well as a pledge to work collectively to promote the industry as a rewarding career choice.

Sandra Kelly, Director of Skills & Policy at People 1st International comments:

“Many large hospitality businesses are making fundamental changes to offer a different and better quality job experience. However, attempts to change the wider perception of the industry and to show that it is changing for the better can only be done if industry works together and commits to being an ‘employer of choice’, providing good quality training, work-life balance and support to their people.”

Sean Wheeler, Chair of the People 1st International Employer-led College Accreditation Board and formerly Director of People Development at Principal Hotels, adds:

“Our Hospitality Commitment is critical if we want to retain people in the industry. Work life balance, development and wellbeing support are basic needs that all people require today. These have to be part of the day-to-day ways of working if we want to ensure we retain talent today and for tomorrow.“

Nicola Forshaw – Director of Human Resources, The Landmark London, adds:

“We believe that ‘Our Hospitality Commitment’ sits well with our beliefs and values. As an industry it is important that we show the diversity of roles and careers open to any future applicants, as well as giving existing team members the opportunity and tools to grow and develop. Hospitality is amazing – and we should shout about it!”

Sign up to ‘Our Hospitality Commitment’ today, by visiting www.people1st.co.uk/Our-Hospitality-Commitment.