IHG launches new Future Skills initiative

IHG Hotels and Resorts has launched a series of new Future Skills Learning and Development programmes, in order to support the career progression of its UK employees. It said the Future Skills Learning and Development initiative will enable employees across its UK-based corporate business to develop their skills in areas such as data analytics, while providing opportunities to progress into leadership roles. The Future Skills programmes will deliver learning and development opportunities across the UK business and is open to all corporate colleagues in the head offices based there. The learning will be delivered by Multiverse, an organisation focuses on providing “valuable” qualifications which are recognised by organisations including CMI, Grant Thornton and General Assembly, among others. Among the Future Skills Learning and Development programme’s first cohort of 60 delegates, four have been enrolled on the degree-level Advanced Data Fellowship. Over the course of the programme, apprentices will learn to distil data using Python, a data and web development programme, and use algorithms to share greater insight on a range of topics, for the benefit of future performance planning. Apprentices are also studying areas such as Project Management and People Leadership, while 26 apprentices are training to become data specialists. Claire Hope, vice president HR, Global Corporate Functions at IHG Hotels and Resorts commented, said: “We are delighted to introduce the Future Skills programme to our corporate teams. Building on a culture of investing in the great talent we have at IHG Hotels & Resorts, our aim is to encourage colleagues to grow their careers in an environment where they are supported to be at their best. “The learning provided by Multiverse and the Future Skills programme not only supports our culture of inclusion, but also helps us take an important step on our Journey to Tomorrow responsible business action plan through supporting 60 apprentices to build their skills, two thirds of whom are female.” She added: “Just this week I overheard one of our delegates sharing her experience so far, and how motivational it has been for her, and I was proud to experience the energy this programme has created.” Jeremy Duggan, president at Multiverse, said: "IHG Future Skills programme is creating opportunities for a diverse group of staff within the business to develop the skills of tomorrow in areas like data and project management. This investment - which comes via the Apprenticeship Levy - will support not just the business, but the people within it to have a world-class learning opportunity. "Apprentices benefit from one-to-one coaching with an industry expert and are supported by a thriving community with events, socials, mentoring and leadership programmes designed to exceed the best of the university experience."