November 5, 2024 TnH Global

Les Roches Global Hospitality Education: Cultivating future industry leaders

Les Roches Global Hospitality Education, a cornerstone of Switzerland-based Sommet Education, has been at the forefront of hospitality management education since its inception in 1954. With campuses in Switzerland, Spain, and the United Arab Emirates, the institution offers a dynamic, multicultural learning environment. Les Roches is renowned for its innovative approach to education, combining rigorous academic training with extensive practical experience to produce industry-ready graduates. In an exclusive interview, JOSE EMMANUEL SOLER ROQUE, Campus Director of Les Roches Global Hospitality Education, Marbella, delves into the institution’s history, global reach, educational philosophy, and commitment to preparing students for success in the ever-evolving hospitality landscape.

Q. Can you briefly explain Les Roches Global Hospitality Education’s history, presence, and mission?

Les Roches Global Hospitality Education was established in 1954 in the town of Bluche, Switzerland. Over the decades, it has grown into a prestigious institution with campuses in Switzerland, Spain, and the United Arab Emirates, each offering a multicultural and dynamic learning environment. Our mission is to shape the future leaders of the hospitality industry by providing an education that combines rigorous academic training with hands-on practical experience. We strive to foster innovation, entrepreneurship, and a global perspective in our students, preparing them to excel in a rapidly evolving industry.

Q. How does the curriculum at Les Roches align with the current demands and trends of the global hospitality industry?

The curriculum at Les Roches is meticulously designed to stay ahead of the curve in the ever-changing hospitality industry. We continuously update our programs to incorporate the latest trends such as sustainability, digital transformation, and personalized guest experiences. Our close collaboration with industry leaders ensures that our students are learning skills and knowledge that are immediately applicable in the workplace. Additionally, we integrate technology and innovation into our teaching methods, offering courses in digital marketing, revenue management, and data analytics to keep our graduates competitive in the global market.

Q. What are the key focus areas in your training programs to ensure students are industry-ready? What specific skills do you focus on to enhance employability?

At Les Roches, we place a strong emphasis on practical skills and real-world experience. Our training programs focus on key areas such as hospitality management, culinary arts, and luxury brand management. We ensure that our students are industry-ready by teaching them critical soft skills like leadership, teamwork, problem-solving, and cultural awareness. Technical skills such as financial management, strategic planning, and digital marketing are also integral parts of our curriculum. Through internships, industry projects, and hands-on workshops, students gain valuable experience that enhances their employability and prepares them for successful careers in hospitality.

Q. What is the employability rate of your graduates? What kind of support does Les Roches provide to students for career counselling and job placements?

Les Roches boasts an impressive employability rate, with over 90 per cent of our graduates securing employment within six months of graduation. We offer comprehensive career services to support our students, including personalized career counselling, resume writing workshops, and interview preparation. Our strong network of industry partners provides ample opportunities for job placements and internships. Additionally, we host career fairs and networking events where students can connect with top employers from around the world. Our dedicated career services team works tirelessly to ensure that every student has the resources and support they need to launch a successful career in hospitality.

Q. How does Les Roches stay updated with the evolving trends and demands of the hospitality sector?

To stay at the forefront of the hospitality sector, Les Roches maintains close ties with industry leaders and participates in major hospitality conferences and research initiatives. Our faculty members are not only educators but also industry practitioners and experts who bring current insights into the classroom. We regularly review and update our curriculum based on feedback from our global alumni network and advisory boards comprised of industry professionals. By engaging in continuous dialogue with the hospitality industry, we ensure that our programs remain relevant and responsive to the latest trends and demands.

Q. What measures do you take to bridge the gap between academic learning and industry expectations?

Bridging the gap between academic learning and industry expectations is a key priority at Les Roches. We achieve this through a combination of practical internships, real-world projects, and guest lectures from industry professionals. Our students participate in internships at leading hotels, resorts, and hospitality businesses, gaining hands-on experience and valuable industry connections. We also incorporate real-world case studies and simulations into our coursework to help students apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings. Additionally, our partnerships with top hospitality brands provide students with exposure to the latest industry practices and technologies.

Q. How do you ensure that your graduates possess the skills and knowledge required to meet the manpower demands of the hospitality sector?

We ensure that our graduates are well-equipped to meet the manpower demands of the hospitality sector by providing a comprehensive education that balances academic rigor with practical experience. Our programs are designed to develop both hard and soft skills, including leadership, communication, and customer service. We continuously assess and update our curriculum based on industry feedback and emerging trends. By offering specialized courses, hands-on training, and opportunities for professional development, we prepare our students to excel in a variety of roles within the hospitality industry.

Q. Are there any new programs or initiatives you are planning to introduce to better cater to the hospitality industry’s manpower needs?

Yes, Les Roches is always looking to innovate and expand our offerings to better meet the needs of the hospitality industry. We are currently developing new programs in areas such as hospitality entrepreneurship, sustainable tourism, and advanced hospitality technologies. These initiatives aim to address current industry challenges and prepare our students for future leadership roles. Additionally, we are enhancing our online learning offerings to provide greater flexibility and accessibility for students around the world. Our goal is to continue evolving our programs to ensure that our graduates are prepared to lead and innovate in the dynamic hospitality sector.

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