HCIMA to keep register of industry graduates

Students on hospitality degree courses are to be targeted by a scheme aimed at reducing the numbers that leave the industry after graduation.

The Hotel & Catering International Management Association (HCIMA) has teamed up with recruitment consultancy Berkeley Scott to launch a register of graduates looking for hospitality careers. The scheme aims to match graduates to the jobs most suitable for them.

It is estimated that up to 60% of graduates fail to transfer into the industry after completing their studies. Instead, they are lured away to work in other sectors with the promise of better pay and conditions, or leave after only a few months.

HCIMA chief executive David Wood admitted the register alone would not solve the recruitment crisis. "In itself the register is not enough. But what it will do is help ensure people get a job that suits them," he said.

Although access to the register is free to students, employers will be charged a fee to search for candidates to fill their vacancies.

Berkeley Scott has so far signed up Allied Leisure, Caffé Uno, Glendola Leisure, Arcadian Hotels and All Bar One.