Completely free to attend, the course comprises of three locally tailored one-day modules and includes Diageo Bar Academy (spirits and beer training), as well as the opportunity for participants to be awarded with nationally recognised qualifications in food safety and customer service.
Claire Hutchinson, Corporate Relations Manager, Diageo Northern Ireland, said: “Diageo Learning for Life: Hospitality Elevator offers those already working in the industry additional training, providing them with skills that can really help to further their careers.
“We had 30 participants take part in the inaugural programme and the feedback has been extremely positive from both the individuals involved and their employers – we are already planning further Hospitality Elevator programmes for later this year.”
The Hospitality Elevator programme operates alongside Diageo’s award-winning Learning for Life: Bartending and Hospitality programme which was launched in 2014 and has seen more than 1,200 unemployed people graduate, progressing into careers in the UK hospitality industry.
The programme is delivered by The Springboard Charity, Diageo’s specialist training partner.
Michele McCreary, Programme Manager for The Springboard Charity in NI, added: “Developed out of established Springboard Charity models, and injected with exclusive Diageo content to support and enhance skills development in hospitality, the Hospitality Elevator course offers participants tailored opportunities to gain new skills, further qualifications and greater confidence. At the same time, it provides hospitality employers support to upskill, develop and retain their team members.
“This is an excellent chance for bartenders and front of house staff to improve their prospects and offers the hospitality industry enhanced opportunities to further develop its talent. We have been extremely impressed by the enthusiasm and professionalism of all the applicants who have taken part in the Hospitality Elevator programme to date – they are a credit to the industry.”
Lisa Topping from J.D. Tipler in Portadown, who took part in Hospitality Elevator programme, said: “I absolutely loved the programme and feel extremely privileged to have been able to take part. I learned loads over the few days and have gained additional qualifications that will allow me to progress my career in the industry.
“I was pleasantly surprised that I got to keep the course workbooks, so I can always give them a read whenever I want a refresher. I am excited about my prospects and look forward to taking part in further modules and masterclasses which would be relevant to my development.”
Marc Eccles, The Northern Whig; Claire Hutchinson, Diageo NI; Tara Meyler, The Morning Star; Jordan Creighton, The Morning Star and Michele McCreary, The Springboard Charity.
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