With roles varying from part-time, casual, or entry-level through to graduate hospitality jobs, the hospitality and leisure industry has something for everyone. Employing over 3.2 million people across the UK hospitality sector, this career path can take you to many places.

There are opportunities to specialise in everything from events, catering and food services, conference management to hotel jobs, and working in restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues.

Core responsibilities in hospitality and leisure

Hospitality jobs can be in various venues, such as hotels, leisure attractions, or holiday centres. Working in events can take you to exhibition centres, wedding venues, and corporate events. Whichever hospitality career you choose, you will be responsible for making events run smoothly and working with many people to create great experiences.

Working in hospitality can be within the food industry, so you will be expected to either produce or organise others to create everything needed to run a venue. You will need to be organised, as many hospitality jobs can be fast-paced and require a lot of people management.

Average hospitality and leisure salary

The average hospitality salary depends on your experience and qualifications. Undergraduates typically join an events company or get a hospitality junior role and gain experience and train further on the job. A hospitality manager with the relevant qualifications and some experience can expect a salary of £37,000.

Working for large venues to host events for corporations can allow you to develop your role as an events manager with a salary of £29,000. There are many other hospitality roles including hotel management, tourism jobs, and much more. The earning potential can be much higher when working with premium brands and well-known hospitality venues.

What to expect from a career in hospitality and leisure

When you choose a hospitality and leisure career, you have the opportunity to work anywhere within the UK and abroad. Where you work will depend on whether you choose to work in a hotel, restaurant, or entertainment venue.

As part of an events or leisure company, you may be required to travel to different venues for events, so you will need to be ready to work where needed. Events and hospitality can often require long working hours that can include evenings and weekends.

Core hospitality and leisure skills

Working in the hospitality industry can be very demanding but also rewarding. You will need to be hardworking and have a passion for making events run smoothly. There are many elements to manage and organise, so being able to work well with people at all levels is essential.

If you love working with people, making new connections, and are a great organiser, the hospitality industry and working in the leisure sector is for you.

If you are looking for an exciting and varied career, then a hospitality and leisure career is ideal.