Adam Thompson

My journey in hospitality began early - at 16, I enrolled at University College Birmingham, where my academic path was transformed by a rare industrial placement in the Canadian Rockies. This immersive experience in one of North America's most prestigious tourism destinations laid the foundation for my understanding of luxury hospitality and international guest expectations.

After completing my degree, I joined Hotel du Vin as a trainee manager, drawn to their reputation for exceptional service and boutique luxury experiences. This role marked the beginning of three decades of working with renowned brands across every facet of hospitality. From orchestrating large-scale galas in historic venues to managing fine dining establishments in cosmopolitan cities, each role expanded my expertise in guest satisfaction and operational excellence.

My time at sea with premium cruise lines added a unique dimension to my skillset, teaching me to deliver consistent luxury service while navigating the complexities of international waters and diverse guest demographics. Leading teams at international resorts further honed my ability to create memorable experiences while managing large-scale operations and cultivating local partnerships.

Throughout my career, I've witnessed the hospitality industry's evolution from traditional service models to today's technology-driven, experience-focused landscape. Now, as an educator, I bring these real-world insights into the classroom, preparing students for an industry that increasingly demands both traditional hospitality skills, digital fluency, and resilience. I focus on developing their adaptability, leadership capabilities, and entrepreneurial mindset - essential qualities for success in modern hospitality.

My commitment to nurturing emerging talent stems from a deep appreciation for an industry that continues to transform and expand globally, offering unprecedented opportunities for innovation and growth. By sharing practical knowledge gained from three decades of hands-on experience, I help bridge the gap between academic theory and industry reality, ensuring the next generation is well-equipped to shape the future of hospitality.

• Developing Employability for Hospitality
• Managing for Profit
• Kitchen and Restaurant Operations
• Creative Kitchen Management
• Marketing Communications for Hospitality
• Culinary Entrepreneurship Management
• Innovation and Creativity Management in Hospitality and Tourism

• People Development
• Innovation
• Sustainability
• Entrepreneurship