
Get involved
Employers interested in joining the programme, or parents and apprentices wanting to learn more, can visit www.hittraining.co.uk/graduate or contact HIT Training on 0800 093 5892.
The new Hospitality Graduate Apprenticeship programme, launched by UKHospitality and HIT Training, aims to provide a pathway into leadership and offer a sustainable solution for attracting, developing and retaining high-calibre talent into the sector.
The programme will see participants progress through three apprenticeships: Level 3 Supervising Hospitality, Level 5 Hospitality Operations Manager and Level 7 Senior Hospitality Leader.
Fully funded through the Apprenticeship Levy, apprentices graduate with a Masters-level qualification and Chartered Manager (CMgr) status via the Chartered Management Institute.
Businesses benefit from a sustainable leadership pipeline, motivated talent, and savings on recruitment costs, while apprentices benefit from a salary while they’re learning and three nationally recognised qualification, as well as a host of other benefits.
Learn more about the programme
We held a webinar in partnership with HIT Training in which we outlined the confirmed programme structure—delivering leadership development through three sequential apprenticeship standards over a five-year pathway—and present the proposed launch timeline.
Employers also heard how the scheme addresses industry-wide talent gaps and provides a fully-funded, work-based alternative to traditional graduate programmes.
Backing from across hospitality
Allen Simpson, Chief Executive of UKHospitality, said: “Hospitality offers fantastic career opportunities and pathways into leadership, and this new programme is an incredible opportunity for ambitious people who want an exciting career in hospitality.
“There is significant value for employers, too, who will benefit from its cost-saving potential, given the programme is funded through the Apprenticeship Levy, and improved staff retention.”
Jill Whittaker, Executive Chair, HIT Training, said: “We’ve worked closely with UKHospitality and employers across the sector to design a programme that responds to real business needs.
“This pathway is about creating long-term leaders who understand the industry from the ground up. It’s a win-win for apprentices and employers alike.”
Joanna Kurowska, VP & Managing Director, UK and Ireland at IHG Hotels & Resorts, said: “The Hospitality Graduate Apprenticeship programme will see us welcome the next generation of talented and curious individuals into the hospitality industry and help passionate individuals grow into confident leaders.
“By offering apprentices a fully funded pathway with valuable skills, qualifications, and a clear progression route – from their first supervisory role through to senior leadership – we can support long-term development, help businesses nurture and retain the talent they need, and ensure we continue to attract and keep the very best people in our industry.”
Hear more at our Workforce and Skills Event 2025
Join us on 25 February for a full day conference bringing members together to share experiences, learn from experts and receive updates on the workforce and skills landscape.
With the workforce, skills and education landscape about to dramatically change in the next few years, our work at the forefront with government allows us to set up a jam-packed agenda to give you the inside track. The Workforce and Skills event will keep your business ahead of the curve and give you a significant advantage against your competitors to recruit the best.
We’re bringing together some of the brightest and most innovative minds in the sector to share what they’re doing to buck the trend and keep their workforce full and engaged.