Serving up feast of vocation paths

A career in hospitality can be a lot more than pulling beers at the local pub.

The industry includes everything from hotel accommodation services to pubs, taverns and bars, with these alone generating around $15 billion in revenue in 2010, according to figures from business analysts IBISWorld.

It's a broad, varied sector, employing everyone from chefs to cleaners, and travel agents to flight attendants.

There are a range of employers in the hotel services sector, with the 3000-strong Mantra Group one of the largest, marketing and managing a network of more than 130 hotels, resorts and apartments across Australia and New Zealand.

The properties are marketed under three brands - Peppers, BreakFree and Mantra - each with its own personality.

The group employs people with no previous hospitality experience, where positions allow, and also offers traineeships and apprenticeships to help employees develop their skills and build a successful career in hospitality.

Melissa, who has worked with the Mantra Group for more than four years, said she has been offered plenty of opportunity to advance her career.

"I first started out as a relief receptionist and soon landed a full-time reception role, I was then promoted to front office manager," she said.

"I was then given a chance to take on a role as a general manager at one our smaller properties. So here I am four years on, and what can I say but I love my job.

"I will admit it does get demanding at times, as with any job, but I wouldn't change it.

"I look forward to learning and achieving so much more whilst I am here at this building and in time look forward to progressing even further with the Mantra Group."

In a more laidback role, Nicole from Peppers spends her days poolside, ensuring guests get the most from their time in a Mantra Group property.

"I've been with the group for almost a year now. My days are spent meeting with very relaxed individuals around the lagoon pool," Nicole said.

"My job is to make sure the customers experience is enhanced with great coffee and refreshing cocktails.

"The consistent training and high standards have secured me a career that will allow me to meet all of my career aspirations.

"The venue is great, the team is friendly and my clients are always pleased to see me."

While many organisations will offer training and development programs to their staff, there are numerous external organisations that offer specialist training for people looking to enter the hospitality industry.

TAFE colleges generally offer a range of courses at certificate and diploma level in hospitality, travel and tourism, while training providers like Sarina Russo and the Sydney-based International College of

Management can help you take the first steps towards your new career.