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Catering manager: Training

Training varies widely across the sector and according to employer, so it is important to be selective and well-informed when choosing where and for whom you want to work. In general, however, opportunities for formal training and professional support are growing in the industry, with some major companies setting up internal higher education learning schemes for their staff.

Entrants with a qualification in hospitality management or a related discipline might consider joining a graduate trainee programme of one of the larger hospitality companies (including large hotel groups or restaurant chains). These offer in-house training and work experience in a wide range of areas, including:

• financial management;
• customer care;
• sales and marketing;
• human resource management.

If you have a degree or diploma in a non-hospitality discipline, a graduate apprenticeship is an excellent option. This scheme consists of work-based learning and leads to higher education awards. It would normally take around a year to complete.

Those working within the industry without a Level 3 qualification may opt to study for a two-year foundation degree covering such areas as financial management and facilities management. This can be converted into an honours degree if the study extends to a third year.

Opportunities for continuous professional development (CPD) are often arranged by, or in association with, the Institute of Hospitality (formerly HCIMA) .

For those with management experience and relevant qualifications there are one-year MBA courses specialising in hospitality management. Distance learning and part-time MBA courses take up to three years.

AGCAS

Written by Caren Nelson, Middlesex University

Last updated:

March 2009

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