Trainee Manager Programme 2026
Hastings Hotels is a family‑owned luxury hotel group based in Northern Ireland, recognised as a leading name in the hospitality industry. We are known for delivering exceptional guest experiences and upholding a legacy of excellence across generations.
At Hastings Hotels, we believe great hospitality starts with great people. We love welcoming new talent to our teams and are committed to supporting our employees through ongoing training, mentoring, and development, that aligns with their career ambitions and helps them to achieve their goals.
Our Trainee Manager Programme is a two‑year development journey designed for ambitious individuals eager to embrace our vision and values, while gaining hands‑on experience in a dynamic, guest‑focused industry.
Applications are now open for September 2026!
What we are looking for:
Excellence
Motivated individuals who are driven and passionate about delivering an outstanding service to our guests.
Integrity
Professionals who act with honesty and professionalism, serving as role models to their peers.
Innovation
Creative thinkers who embrace new ideas and improvements.
Teamwork
Enthusiastic team players who support and empower others.
Passion
People who bring energy, drive, and pride to their work.
What You’ll Gain:
Multi‑departmental experience across our hotels, providing a comprehensive understanding of the hospitality industry.
Tailored mentorship and industry‑leading training to support your personal and professional growth.
A customised career path designed to align with your long‑term goals.
A University Diploma (Level 4) through our bespoke programme delivered in partnership with Ulster University.
Employment Details
Fixed‑term for 2 years, with the possibility of permanency.
Start date of 1st September 2026.
Full‑time, 35 hours per week excluding breaks.
Flexibility is essential. You will work on a rota basis and be available for evenings, weekends, and public holidays as required.
Willingness to travel. A rotational programme, involving placements across our portfolio of properties.
Here is what you can expect in return:
A competitive salary
29 days holiday plus an additional days' leave for your birthday
Cash and credit card tips
Employee discounts
Free staff meals
About the role
The Trainee Manager Programme is an opportunity to work across many aspects of our hospitality business, by completing rotations in Food, Beverage, Housekeeping, Front Office and Duty Management across our properties. From month 9, you will also benefit from additional placements with our Head Office Teams in Central Reservations, IT, and People & Culture.
Job Description:
To complete your assigned series of rotations, starting with the core aspects of each role and department.
To perform the operational tasks undertaken by our teams, before progressing.
To support departmental managers in the delivery of exceptional experiences for our guests.
To take responsibility for developing your knowledge and skills in each programme placement.
To ensure that you are knowledgeable about the facilities and services within our hotels and are proactive in the sale of these to guests.
To promote and contribute to a harmonious working environment where all employees are treated with respect and dignity.
To ensure Hastings quality standards and procedures are fully understood and implemented.
To ensure you assist guests with any reasonable request for hotel services.
To ensure the service areas, fixtures and equipment are properly maintained and presented to Hastings standards.
To ensure a safe environment is maintained in compliance with health, safety, fire, hygiene and security legislation and company policies and procedures.
To ensure the compliance with all matters relating to licensing laws, Customs and Excise Regulations and all other relevant legislation.
Any other duties as required by the management team.
In year two of the programme
It is expected you will be able to support with the management and motivation of employees through effective communication, training, and development, in accordance with company policies and relevant employment legislation, ensuring HR procedures are followed.
To carry out the role of Duty Manager at your assigned property.
To support the team with responding to queries and complaints, and finding the appropriate solution.
To maintain effective communication and relationships with other hotel departments, to maintain an effective operation and ensure guest satisfaction.
Learning & Development
You will engage fully in each rotation, building skills in our hospitality operations from entry level, through to supervisory and managerial roles.
In year two of the programme, you will commit to completing our accredited qualification in partnership with Ulster University, covering leadership, KPIs, service excellence, change management, and team building.
You will actively take responsibility for your personal learning, development, and reflection throughout the programme.
Required Criteria
The right to work in the UK
A professional appearance
A passion for hospitality and delivering memorable experiences
Educated to Level 2 (GSCE) or the equivalent with grades A-C in English and Mathematics
Exceptional attention to detail, ensuring our standards of service and presentation are met
A collaborative and positive attitude, with the ability to work well within a team to achieve success
Please Note: Whilst a driving licence is not a requirement of this role, you will need to ensure you have the ability to commute to our various locations across Northern Ireland
Desired Criteria
Educated to Level 6 (Undergraduate Degree) or the equivalent in a relevant field e.g. Tourism and Hospitality Management
Previous experience in hospitality
Skills you'll need
Bar Service
Food Service Skills
Exceptional Customer Service Skills
Developing Self
Teamwork
Hastings Hotels is an Equal Opportunities Employer.
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