Lincoln International Business School (LIBS) master’s students have an opportunity to experience a one-year work placement as part of the two-year programme. Jan Tunley, LIBS Postgraduate Employability Officer visits many students on location to ensure that they are enjoying the placement, are fully supported and progressing well. Sufiyan, who is studying MSc International Hospitality Management with Professional Practice, is at The Houblon Arms Luxury Hotel, South Lincolnshire.
Sufiyan is working as an assistant manager for The Houblon Arms. He applied initially via Indeed, had a phone interview and was asked to complete a trial day. Sufiyan had had extensive previous work experience in India, supervising service for events as well as tending bar, and says he was very quickly able to translate that into the UK workplace. Sufiyan says that the support and teamwork across the business is excellent, and John (the owner) had mentored him from day one. For example, John taught Sufiyan how to upsell, which was a new skill, at which he has become very successful.
As assistant manager, Sufiyan now interviews new staff himself. He also undertakes all aspects of running the business: check-in/check-out, reservations, agreeing the menu with the chef, suggesting ideas for improvement, supervising staff, etc. Sufiyan is making use of his previous skills as a barman, too, and has suggested new cocktails for the bar to serve. Sufiyan added that he was struck by the way in which the owners join in and help out in any capacity when the hotel is busy. He says the relationship between owners and staff is strong, which generates loyalty and an investment in the business by its employees. Sufiyan is now trusted to manage the hotel, whenever both owners need to be absent at any point, and he added that the whole experience is proving invaluable.
For further information on our Master’s Placement Years, or to communicate with our Employability Team, please get in touch with PG-LIBSEmployability.ac.uk.
