A HIGHLAND hospitality operator will be doing his part to encourage young people to consider careers in the industry after joining the board of employability group Developing the Young Workforce (DYW).
Ken Loades (above) has worked for over a decade at Inverness-based hospitality group Cru Holdings, where he is director of operations. The company operates a number of units in Inverness and the central belt.
He will work with DYW to highlight the variety of careers available in the hospitality industry across the Inverness and central Highland region, taking in both front and back of house roles.
“The industry has been very good to me,” said Loades.
“I started as a kitchen porter and worked my way through the ranks. This gave me a solid grounding and a good understanding of the hospitality industry.
“The biggest opportunity I see is with young people. In my new role, I will be lucky enough to be in the position to encourage young people to choose hospitality as a career and opening their minds to the wealth of different jobs and experiences available.”
Andy Maxtone of DYW said: “We’re delighted to welcome Ken into the DYW team.
“Hospitality is a big part of our strategy for this year and we are looking forward to Ken providing additional oversight and guidance.
“His experience across the hospitality industry will be invaluable in making sure we are equipping young Highlanders with the skills they need to build successful careers in one of the region’s most successful sectors.”
