At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our Graduate Management Programme and gain hands-on experience in luxury hospitality.
- Company: Red Carnation Hotels, a family-owned collection of luxury hotels across the UK, Ireland, and Switzerland.
- Benefits: Earn £33,000 OTE, enjoy 28-36 days holiday, free meals, and fantastic perks.
- Other info: Direct access to CEO, mentoring support, and opportunities for international placements.
- Why this job: Kickstart your leadership career in a vibrant, people-first culture focused on growth and excellence.
- Qualifications: Degree and 12 months' hospitality experience; passion for guest experiences is essential.
The predicted salary is between 12.6 - 15.4 £ per hour.
What is in it for you?
- £33,000 OTE per annum, plus other exciting benefits and perks!
- Holiday allowance starting at 28 days and increasing with length of service up to 36 days.
- Delicious free meals on duty.
- Professional, award winning learning and development opportunities from day one.
- Fantastic recommend a friend and family bonus scheme worth up to £600.
- 50% off on food and 25% off on beverages in selected Red Carnation Hotels F&B outlets.
- Two paid volunteering days each year, because we care about our community.
- Access to immediate Employee Assistance Programme, because we care about our employees.
- Vibrant hotel recognition events every month and hotel-based incentives (Employee of the Month / Manager of the Quarter).
- Social and team building events.
- Complimentary quality uniform and dry-cleaning services.
- Enhanced paid maternity leave & paternity leave.
Are you ready to build a leadership career rooted in Hospitality, Excellence, Aspiration, Respect and Teamwork? Red Carnation Hotels invites ambitious individuals to apply for our Graduate Management Programme (MP) – an award-winning development pathway designed to nurture future leaders who lead with heart, integrity and purpose. At Red Carnation Hotels, we believe outstanding hospitality begins with our people. Our Management Programme is built around our HEART values, ensuring our future leaders grow not only in capability, but in character.
How does it work? Our structured programme offers hands-on operational experience, leadership development and business exposure across our hotels, ensuring you understand what exceptional hospitality looks like at every level.
- Rooms Division – 12 months Housekeeping | Concierge | Nights | Reception | Reservations You will develop a deep understanding of guest experience, learning how attention to detail, warmth and consistency create unforgettable stays.
- Food & Beverage – 12 months Room Service | Kitchen | Events | Restaurant | Bar You will work alongside passionate teams to deliver outstanding service, learning how collaboration, communication and leadership drive high-performing operations.
To support your development, you will participate in our award-winning learning and development trainings, as well as exposure to our central support departments, to enable you to emerge as a capable manager upon completion of the programme.
Other highlights at a glance:
- Direct access to CEO, Mr Jonathan Raggett.
- Mentoring support with a senior member of the Management or Executive Team.
- Experience London and one other destination - Ireland, Guernsey, Switzerland or Scotland (must be able to speak fluent French).
- Permanent operational management opportunities when you are ready.
Many of our senior managers came through the programme and others are now: Front Office Managers | Restaurant Managers | Operations Managers | Deputy General Managers | General Managers | Hotel Managers | Executive Assistants | Food & Beverage Managers.
MANAGEMENT PROGRAMME EXCELLENCE AWARD Excel on the programme and see the world of Red Carnation Hotels. After completing your first year, you could be selected for a fully sponsored development placement at a Red Carnation hotel in another region.
What's included:
- Up to 2 weeks working at a sister property abroad.
- Return economy flights, accommodation and transfers paid for.
- Meals included during your placement.
- Time in different operational departments and shadowing GMs and MDs.
- A signature experience of your choice, such as an excursion or a sustainability experience.
- The chance to network with MPs across our global collection.
- A presentation to our CEO and senior leaders at the end of your placement abroad.
By winning this award, you will distinguish yourself as a top-tier candidate, proving your readiness to step directly into a management role upon graduation from the programme.
Who We're Looking For? We are seeking individuals who naturally align with our HEART values and demonstrate leadership potential. To join the programme, you will need:
- A degree and a minimum of 12 months' hospitality industry experience.
- A genuine passion for hospitality and delivering exceptional guest experiences.
- A desire to grow, learn and take on responsibility.
- Strong attention to detail and pride in doing things well.
- Excellent communication skills in English (written and spoken).
- Eligibility to work in the UK/Ireland or Switzerland.
What's next?
- Apply online today for our 2027 cohort!
- Applications close November 2026.
- We will be in touch in November and December 2026.
- You will take part in a two-step process: an individual online interview and if successful, an assessment day in January 2027.
- Opportunities to commence the programme from March to November 2027.
If you have any questions please contact our Talent Development Officer, Arella White (awhite@rchmail.com) for more details.
Why Red Carnation Hotels? A people-first culture built on HEART. Red Carnation Hotels is a family-owned collection of luxury hotels and restaurants across the UK, Ireland, Switzerland, and Southern Africa. We are proud to be recognised not only for exceptional guest experiences, but for our commitment to developing and supporting our people, including:
- Top Employer Award (2026).
- Catey Award for Best Employer (2025).
- AA's Hotel Group of the Year (2024).
At Red Carnation Hotels, we develop leaders from within and believe careers should be built with purpose, passion and pride.
- Leads with Hospitality – creating meaningful experiences for guests and colleagues.
- Strives for Excellence – setting high standards and leading by example.
- Demonstrates Aspiration – showing ambition, curiosity and a desire to progress.
- Acts with Respect – valuing people, perspectives and inclusive leadership.
- Champions Teamwork – building trust, collaboration and shared success.
Red Carnation Hotels is an Equal Opportunities Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Graduate Management Programme - UK, Ireland & Switzerland employer: Central UK Head Office Red Carnation Hotels
Central UK Head Office Red Carnation Hotels offers a vibrant work culture with numerous benefits, including generous holiday allowances and professional development opportunities. Employees enjoy free meals on duty and various recognition events, fostering a sense of community and teamwork. The company is committed to employee well-being, providing access to an Employee Assistance Programme and enhanced parental leave.
Contact Details:
Central UK Head Office Red Carnation Hotels Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Graduate Management Programme - UK, Ireland & Switzerland
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like Central UK Head Office Red Carnation Hotels. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Central UK Head Office Red Carnation Hotels
Don't be shy about reaching out to Central UK Head Office Red Carnation Hotels directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Graduate Management Programme - UK, Ireland & Switzerland
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about Central UK Head Office Red Carnation Hotels and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at Central UK Head Office Red Carnation Hotels
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!
