NORTH SOMERSET HOTEL RECOGNISED FOR APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAMME

A North Somerset hotel has been shortlisted for a prestigious award thanks to its apprenticeship programme which helps students kick-start their careers in the hospitality industry.

DoubleTree by Hilton, Cadbury House in Congresbury has been shortlisted for the Large Employer of the Year award at the Weston College Business Awards, due to take place on Thursday 25 May.

The awards recognise the hard work and commitment from apprentice employers and celebrate students’ progress, dedication to training and the outstanding impact they have made on the businesses they are employed by.

Mehmet Kandemir, general manager of the four-star hotel, said: “We currently have eight apprentices working in several departments of the business, from the Marco Pierre White Steakhouse to customer services and the maintenance team.

“Over the years we have had many, many success stories with our apprentices and there is nothing that makes us more proud than developing an apprentice or trainee into a fully-fledged member of the team with a permanent position.

“Recently we promoted Sam Fowler, who started as a maintenance apprentice in December 2012, to maintenance manager and Natasha Leckie is the latest in a long line of kitchen apprentices to complete her course and be offered a role as a commis chef in the Marco Pierre White Steakhouse kitchen. We’re also proud to say our business hospitality trainee Harry has also been shortlisted for an award.

“We’re delighted that our efforts to develop young hospitality talent has been recognised and we are looking forward to celebrating the achievements of both students and employers at the ceremony.”

Doubletree by Hilton, Cadbury House is a four-star boutique hotel renowned in the region as a luxury wedding, conference and leisure venue. With two onsite restaurants by Marco Pierre White, an award-winning health club and spa and 132 bedrooms, the business is a local favourite.

For more information visit www.cadburyhotelbristol.co.uk