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Taking regular‘ brain breaks’, drinking 1.5 litres of water and spending time to focus on physical fitness everyday can reduce stress and illness. Dugmore went on to outline the key actions that help to keep staff happy and motivated: share success, practice three random acts of kindness and smile and laugh every day.
Focusing on the future of industry talent, Tiffany St. James, Co-Founder of Transmute, told delegates that devising a digital strategy and utilising different platforms can help to attract and retain the next generation of talent. Using dedicated social media channels can help to reach audiences that are better suited to the positions hotels have available.
A panel discussion on‘ Stretching the Boundaries’ saw past Master Innholder Scholarship winners, Aspiring Leader Diploma( MIALD) students and employers discuss the benefits of nurturing talent and providing staff the opportunity to develop themselves further. Session chair and MD of Red Carnation Hotels Jonathan Raggett FIH MI champions further learning and asked hoteliers to put their team members forward for the upcoming MIALD. The diploma is aimed at junior managers and focuses on leadership and management training.( Deadline for applications is Feb 17th 2017.)
Dr Dorian Dugmore explored the benefits of wellness in business and how“ looking after your staff is important, but looking after your leaders is just as vital”.
On Monday evening, a Moët & Chandon Champagne reception was followed by a four-course dinner designed by Hilton London Bankside’ s Executive Chef, Paul Bates. Executive Secretary of the Master Innholders Philippe Rossiter, who will retire in the spring, was made an honorary Master Innholder by Chairman Stuart Bowery( main photo) in recognition of his service over the years.
Amanda Afyia, Editor of The Caterer, then introduced the Hotelier of the Year winner, Craig Bancroft, Managing Director of Northcote. Bancroft took this opportunity to invite members of the hospitality industry to unite in the wake of Brexit challenges mentioned by Ufi Ibrahim earlier in the day.
Guests took part in a prize draw to raise vital funds for the Master Innholders( and HT’ s) chosen charities, Springboard and Hospitality Action, raising over £ 8,000.