IHG Academy launches 600th programme

InterContinental Hotels Group has launched its 600th IHG Academy programme, doubling the number operating globally in the past year.

The group launched more than 300 programmes during 2014, with over 6700 participating members getting the opportunity to develop the skills needed to work in the hospitality industry.

The 600th programme, situated at the Holiday Inn Express – Powless Guesthouse in San Antonio, USA, is one of 10 programmes formed as part of a broader strategic collaboration between non-profit organisation Goodwill Industries and IHG.

As a result of the programme, two IHG Academy participants at the Holiday Inn Express Powless House have already been offered jobs in the hotel, working at the hotel’s front desk and food and beverage areas.

IHG vice president corporate responsibility Kate Gibson said: “At IHG we are committed to improving the local communities in which we operate and this includes giving people local to our hotels the chance to develop the skills necessary for securing a job in hospitality.

"Doubling the number of IHG Academy programmes to 600 during 2014 is a powerful demonstration of this commitment and represents a big milestone for IHG as we continue to grow IHG Academy globally.”

Originally launched in China in 2006, the IHG Academy is a global collaboration between IHG hotels and local education providers and community organisations. The programme gives participants experience working in the hospitality industry, and allows IHG the opportunity to develop skills for people to work in the group’s hotels.