New platform supports Newcastle residents into hospitality jobs

Newcastle residents are being urged to consider careers in tourism and hospitality, with hundreds of jobs available in the sector.

Jobs opportunities can be accessed through a new free job vacancy portal that matches local people to local job opportunities, work experience, skills development and careers advice, called Jobs@SkillsHub.

The new scheme is part of Newcastle City Council’s response to supporting residents through the pandemic.

Vacancies on the platform range from front of house and waiting staff roles to chef opportunities and hoteliers at established brands.

Jobs@SkillsHub is the latest initiative from SkillsHub, who have already supported hundreds of local people into education, work or training, providing a central platform for jobseekers to gain fast access to vacancies as well as job advisors.

Michelle Percy, director of place at Newcastle City Council, said: ‘With the furlough scheme set to end on 30 September, it is important that people have access to good job opportunities. The hospitality sector is a key part of our local economy and will play an important role in the city’s recovery, which is why we are supporting this recruitment drive.

‘Through using Jobs@SkillsHub, people will find all the advice they need to help them get into work or find new career opportunities.’

Ian Thomas, director of leisure tourism and research at NewcastleGateshead Initiative, said: ‘Our vibrant tourism and hospitality sector is integral to our region’s identity, and is often the first and lasting impression visitors have of our city. The sector in Newcastle and Gateshead alone, is worth an estimated £1.9 billion, as of 2019, and maintaining the sector’s health is crucial to the recovery of our city, as well as the development of skills and employability of our residents.

‘Following the reopening of the city centre after lockdown, and significant investments such as INNSiDE Newcastle hotel, Hard Rock Café and the announcement of a Moxy Hotel on Newcastle Helix, we have seen an increase in job vacancies which bring new opportunities for local jobseekers. We are encouraging jobseekers and local businesses alike, to use the fantastic services provided by Jobs@SkillsHub to access job and training opportunities, and to promote latest vacancies.’

In related news, the Mayor of West Yorkshire has announced the formation of a Green Jobs Taskforce to deliver on her pledge to create 1,000 well paid, skilled, green jobs for young people under 30.

Photo supplied by Newcastle City Council