The programme will see participants progress through three apprenticeships: Level 3 Supervising Hospitality, Level 5 Hospitality Operations Manager and Level 7 Senior Hospitality Leader. The five-year programme will help to develop the next generation of hospitality leaders.

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.”

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 qualifications, as well as a host of other benefits. 

Allen Simpson, chief executive of UKHospitality, added: “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.”

Employers interested in joining the programme, or parents and apprentices wanting to learn more, can visit: https://hittraining.co.uk/graduate/ or contact HIT Training on 0800 093 5892.