20 The Great Debate
IS THE INDUSTRY FAILING
The Great Debate took place at the historic Cambridge Union Society in January . In partnership with the AIEA , it facilitated a heated discussion on accountability
s the industry failing its people ? That was the question put forward before the Cambridge Union Society by the Alliance of Independent Event Agencies ( AIEA ) for its Great Debate , which took place 11 January . The debate comprised two teams : three spoke for the Proposition and three for the Opposition , with the audience voting with their feet to determine the winner .
Team Opposition The case for the opposition , those in defence of the sector , which included Kate Nichols OBE , CEO of UKHospitality ; Sally Beck , general manager of the Royal Lancaster London and Peter Hancock , a long time hotelier and host , made an impassioned case that reflected the wonderful opportunities that the events and hospitality industry affords its people .
Nichols refuted the motion which claimed the hospitality and events industry was failing its people . She emphasised the industry ’ s vital role as the third-largest export earner , generating substantial employment and contributing significantly to GDP . She challenged the notion of failure by highlighting the industry ’ s positive impact on daily life , communities , and diverse individuals , including frontline
Proposition
• Rachel Belliere-Wilson , access and inclusion educator
• Lindsay Conroy , national head of apprenticeships , USCAS
• Martin Fullard , director , Davies Tanner & The Business of Events
Opposition
• Kate Nichols OBE , CEO , UKHospitality ,
• Sally Beck , general manager , Royal Lancaster London
• Peter Hancock , hotelier and host , Hancock Speaks
workers , tourists , and those in need .
Nichols argued that the industry ’ s contributions , both economic and cultural , should be considered in the vote . She went on to question the Proposition ’ s definition of “ our people ,” pointing out the positive impact on workers , apprenticeships , and charities . Ultimately , Nichols asserted that the industry , characterised by self-improvement and valuable contributions , is not failing its people but rather excelling in various aspects .
Sally Beck vehemently disagreed with the Proposition , asserting that the hospitality and events industry , or , as she referred to , the ‘ profession ’, is vibrant , inclusive , and supportive . Using the Royal Lancaster London as an example , Beck highlighted the diverse and multigenerational team working across various roles , dispelling the notion that hospitality is limited to waiters and chefs . She emphasised the importance of trust and empowerment in managing such a diverse workforce , employing a servant leadership style .
Beck went on to talk about ‘ Gen Z ’ s ’ appeal to the industry , showcasing the ethos of the Hotelier ’ s Charter and the broader Hospitality Charter , with commitments to training , fair wages , sustainable practices , and diversity . She challenged the negative stereotypes of long hours and poor pay . Beck stressed the industry ’ s impact on positive mental health and its unparalleled opportunities for progression and development .
Wrapping the debate was Peter Hancock , a seasoned professional in the hospitality industry . He opposed the motion by providing a personal narrative , highlighting how hospitality and events provided him with career opportunities despite lacking a university education .
Hancock contended that hospitality is a thriving sector that offers limitless career prospects for individuals of all ages and backgrounds . He challenged the notion that the industry is failing , citing increased employment post-pandemic and stressing the sector ’ s commitment to nurturing talent and supporting various charities .
He concluded by urging the audience to vote against the www . conference-news . co . uk