People 1st International and HR in Hospitality have joined forces in a powerful new partnership designed to connect over 2,000 hospitality students from People 1st International accredited colleges directly with leading employers who are members of HR in Hospitality. This collaboration, officially launched at The Standard Hotel, focuses on fostering connections between employers and students early on to create a sustainable talent pipeline for the future.

The mission: Bridging education and industry

The hospitality industry is facing a critical challenge: many talented students graduate from hospitality colleges only to leave the sector within their first year. This is often due to mismatched expectations from employers. This partnership seeks to address these issues by directly connecting students with employers, helping students enter the workforce with career clarity and guidance, along with structured development opportunities that pave the way for long-term, fulfilling careers in the hospitality sector.

Benefits for employers: Access to prepared, industry-ready talent

For employers, this partnership offers the chance to tap into a pool of well-trained talent. HR in Hospitality members gain direct access to students from People 1st International accredited colleges who are eager to begin their careers. It helps employers build a skilled workforce while signalling to the industry that they are committed to developing future leaders in hospitality. Through this connection, employers can offer quality work experiences, training and career progression, actively shaping the workforce and addressing the industry’s talent needs.

Benefits for students: A clear path to career success

For students, the partnership provides invaluable opportunities to connect with potential employers in the hospitality industry. Through work experience, internships and full-time roles, students are able to gain real-world experience and secure a place in the workforce upon graduation. This initiative eliminates the uncertainty many new graduates face, offering them direct access to employers who are invested in their growth and long-term success. By joining this network, students are not only better prepared but are also empowered to take the next step in their careers with confidence and clarity.

Benefits for colleges: Strengthened industry relationships

People 1st International accredited colleges benefit from this partnership by building stronger connections with industry employers, offering students more opportunities to gain valuable industry experience and secure positive career outcomes. For colleges not yet accredited, joining the network of hospitality accredited colleges helps strengthen industry relationships and boosts their reputation as institutions that produce work-ready graduates who meet industry demands.