As part of Hospitality Apprenticeships Week 2024 (#HAW2024), we had the pleasure of speaking with Steven Lawson, General Manager at Hampton by Hilton, affiliated with RBH Hospitality Management, one of the UK’s leading hotel management companies. This week serves to unite the hospitality community in showcasing the transformative impact of apprenticeships on individuals and businesses alike, promoting the sector as an exciting place to work, filled with clear career paths and rewarding opportunities.
Steven is a passionate advocate for apprenticeships, viewing them as life-changing opportunities for aspiring hospitality professionals. “My inspiration came from my personal journey and a strong belief in the benefits of hands-on learning,” he explains. “Early in my career, I learned invaluable technical skills and the importance of dedication and teamwork, which are central to delivering outstanding customer service. Apprenticeships offer individuals from all backgrounds the skills and confidence needed to thrive in hospitality.”
When discussing the qualities he seeks in potential apprentices, Steven highlights enthusiasm, a strong work ethic, and a genuine love for serving others. He believes that apprentices should not only be willing to learn but also possess the resilience to overcome challenges. To support their development, he pairs them with experienced mentors, provides hands-on training, and encourages participation in workshops and seminars for continuous growth.
For managers who have yet to embrace apprenticeship programmes, Steven offers essential recommendations. He suggests emphasising the fresh talent and perspectives apprentices bring to teams and sharing success stories from other organisations. Beginning with a pilot programme can also help demonstrate the value of apprenticeships while allowing for refinements before broader implementation. Additionally, fostering a welcoming environment for apprentices can enhance creativity and innovation within the team.
“The bottom line is, if we don’t embrace these initiatives as managers, how can we expect our teams to do so?” Steven asserts. By championing apprenticeship programmes, we not only cultivate the stars of the future but also safeguard the growth and sustainability of our industry.
Speak with our new business team to discover how we can assist you in implementing employer-led apprenticeship programmes for your teams.
