Careers in hospitality, new opportunities at The Rise

Building a career in the hospitality industry – we speak to Liv Trueman General Manager with Lounges.

As part of our series of content about building a career in your chosen industry, we’re focusing on hospitality, thanks to the team at Lounges with local sites at Corzo Lounge (Reigate) and the new Posadero Lounge (Redhill).

In this article we focus specifically on the role of the General Manager, to give you an idea of career progression, through to the skills needed to work in hospitality and why it’s such a great industry to work in.

What career progression path have you followed to date in your career in hospitality?

I have been working with Loungers PLC for over 3 years now, starting my career as a supervisor to now a General Manager. Over the years, the company has noticed my strengths and given me every opportunity to progress. From working in sites, customer facing and providing service, to now supporting the teams behind the scenes and sharing my experiences.

I love working for Loungers as the company are diverse, flexible and exciting. Each day brings something new to the table. Hospitality as a whole is a really rewarding career, also very complex, however, Loungers make it worthwhile, and hard work truly does pay off.

What specific qualifications do you need for your role in hospitality?

I would say it’s all about attitude, flexibility and putting the customer first. We have a great range of staff from students working on their days off to people who really value the flexible nature of the roles. What we all share is a passion for bringing people together and a positive attitude.

What are the things you love most about working in the hospitality industry?

I believe hospitality is a great career path, its vibrant and fast paced, suitable for all ages. There are endless opportunities with progression in hospitality, as seen in my path. You get to meet new people from all walks of life, learn from other people’s life experiences and make an impact on other peoples lives. It’s incredible the power we have as hospitality workers, we may be someone first and last contact of the day. We have a huge impact on society and can really shape a community within our business’.

What advice would you give to others trying to get into the hospitality industry?

I would say apply for a role and start your career! I can say with confidence that Loungers is a company in which offers the opportunity to have a career, that moulds into whatever walk of life you are faced with – it gives you room to grow as a person alongside your job title. It allows us to be our true authentic selves and build a family with those we work with, and most of all have fun.