17 June 2026
In early June, we welcomed Hospitality and Universities United(opens in new tab) (HUU), as they hosted an employer connect event for UoSiL students, supporting their future careers in the sector.
Dawn Lawrence, CEO and founder of HUU, hosted an engaging panel with employers working across the industry.
Dawn, who was recently awarded an honorary doctorate by UoSiL(opens in new tab), noted that hospitality is the third-largest employment sector in the UK, and discussed her ambition to broaden perceptions of the careers available under the hospitality umbrella.
Broadening perceptions of hospitality careers
The panel brought together employers working across hotels, bars, restaurants, and care homes.
Attendees included Amanda Smyth, People Director at ETM Hospitality Group, Emma Jayne, Chief People Officer at KYN Luxury Care Homes, and Jakob Gowin, General Manager at Melia White House Hotel.
Discussing what employers are looking for
Each employer outlined what they look for in an applicant and shared their own career journeys. Students asked questions, which focused on how to succeed and stand out in an increasingly competitive job market.
Renu Lama, a final year BSc International Tourism and Hospitality Management student, said, “As someone in the early stages of their career, today’s employer event was really helpful, and I was happy that I was able to chat with an employer who particularly interested me.”
Students were encouraged to sign up for tailored HUU job alerts, and the panel was followed by a networking session, allowing attendees to build connections with employers.
One employer on the panel was Jonathan Napier, Associate Director of HR at Jumeriah Hotels.
He commented on the importance of connecting with students, saying,
“Events like these are so important. Students want to know how they can make an impact; they’re coming through at a time when AI is rapidly changing the landscape. My advice is to tailor your applications, do your research, and if you can, try to get in contact with the person who makes the hiring decisions.”
"Events like these are so important. Students want to know how they can make an impact"
Jonathan Napier, Jumeriah Hotels
Blerton Hyseni, event organiser and Senior Lecturer, expressed,
“Hosting the first HUU Employee & Student Connect event proved to be a great success. It was inspiring to see so many students actively engaged, asking questions, and eager to explore career opportunities within the hospitality sector.”
Our International Tourism and Hospitality Management(opens in new tab) degrees equip students for exciting careers in tourism, leisure, and hospitality, blending cutting-edge theory with real-world experience.