Hospitality Employment Studies | 335,000 job opportunities forecast over the next three years

With 335,000 job opportunities forecast over the next three years*, the Australian tourism and hospitality industry is set to make a come back in 2010, says William Blue College of Hospitality Management.

"Demand for highly skilled hospitality and tourism management professionals remains high, despite suggestions the industry took a hit during the GFC. And while our sector has suffered in some shape or form, the industry has managed to retain staff and keep busy. There has never been a better time to pursue a career in tourism and hospitality management," says Stuart Wiggins, deputy head of college, William Blue College of Hospitality Management.

However, Wiggins says the days of rising through the ranks without a qualification are over.
"The professionalisation of the industry has resulted in employers placing a high priority on business qualifications. All the major hospitality and tourism organisations require graduates and trainees to have a degree qualification as a minimum to join their program.

"Employers are also looking for graduates with more than just entry-level skills. They want industry-ready professionals equipped with strong interpersonal and communications skills, a good work ethic, a sound knowledge of food and beverage in addition to business and management skills and qualifications," he says.