September 2018

London trip opens students' eyes to world of opportunities in hospitality

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From a tour of Amazon’s catering facilities to a visit to one of the world’s most iconic hotels, Hospitality Business Management students had their eyes opened to the sheer breadth of careers their degree could lead to during a “phenomenal” two-day trip to London.

As part of their induction, the group of Level 5 students were invited to explore the diverse world of hospitality by UCB alumni who are enjoying successful careers in the capital in very different areas of the industry.

First, they spent the day discovering the world of corporate foodservice at BaxterStorey, where alumni Gabrielle Le Roux and Sam Roth now work as Service Academy Programme Manager and Account Manager, respectively.

During the day of learning, the students looked at various career opportunities, from management and retail to sustainability, finance and marketing, complete with a tour of some of BaxterStorey’s London-based locations, including Amazon.

BaxterStorey Talent Manager Sharon Daniell said: “Showing prospective graduates our world of hospitality is a journey of discovery for them - being able to see the diversity of careers and range of clients we have is amazing. We are always happy to showcase what we do as an alternative career to hotels and restaurants.”

Valentina Sabau, BA (Hons) Hospitality Business Management undergraduate, said: “Today has really opened my eyes and changed my mind about the foodservice sector. When you hear the word catering, you immediately think of a canteen, but it is so much more than that. I am definitely considering a career with BaxterStorey, as there’s a real opportunity to develop yourself with the company.”

Next stop was a visit to five-star hotel The Dorchester on Park Lane, organised by UCB alumni Ben Bushell, PA to the Global Director, Dorchester Collection Academy.

Students had a front of house tour of the three Michelin-starred Alain Ducasse restaurant, The Promenade and The Ballroom. They also visited the in-house florist and the engineering and maintenance departments.

Lecturer in Hospitality Business Management Shivaun Caffrey said: “The visits were phenomenal. They gave our students a new insight into career opportunities in both contract catering and at a five-star, luxury hotel, two completely different sectors of the hospitality industry. Meeting UCB alumni is a fantastic way for current students to get an understanding of the industry and discover opportunities for career progression.”

Find out more about UCB’s hospitality courses.

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