Trainee Manager Programme 2026 in Belfast

Location: 1066 House, 587 Upper Newtownards Road

Hastings Hotels is a family‑owned luxury hotel group based in Northern Ireland, recognised as a leading name in the hospitality industry. Our Trainee Manager Programme is a two‑year development journey designed for ambitious individuals eager to embrace our vision and values, while gaining hands‑on experience in a dynamic, guest‑focused industry.

What We Are Looking For

• Excellence – Motivated individuals who are driven and passionate about delivering an outstanding service to our guests.
• Integrity – Professionals who act with honesty and professionalism, serving as role models to their peers.
• Innovation – Creative thinkers who embrace new ideas and improvements.
• Teamwork – Enthusiastic team players who support and empower others.
• Passion – People who bring energy, drive, and pride to their work.

What You’ll Gain

• Multi‑departmental experience across our hotels, providing a comprehensive understanding of the hospitality industry.
• Tailored mentorship and industry‑leading training to support your personal and professional growth.
• A customised career path designed to align with your long‑term goals.
• A University Diploma (Level 4) through our bespoke programme delivered in partnership with Ulster University.

Employment Details

• Fixed‑term for 2 years, with the possibility of permanency.
• Start date: 1st September 2026.
• Full‑time, 35 hours per week excluding breaks.
• Flexibility is essential. Work on a rota basis and be available for evenings, weekends, and public holidays as required.
• Willingness to travel.
• Rotational programme with placements across our portfolio of properties.

Benefits

• A competitive salary.
• 29 days holiday plus an additional day’s leave for your birthday.
• Cash and credit card tips.
• Employee discounts.
• Free staff meals.

Responsibilities

• The Trainee Manager Programme is an opportunity to work across many aspects of our hospitality business, by completing rotations in Food, Beverage, Housekeeping, Front Office and Duty Management across our properties.
• From month 9, you will also benefit from additional placements with our Head Office Teams in Central Reservations, IT, and People & Culture.
• Complete your assigned series of rotations, starting with the core aspects of each role and department.
• Perform the operational tasks undertaken by our teams before progressing.
• Support departmental managers in the delivery of exceptional experiences for our guests.
• Take responsibility for developing your knowledge and skills in each programme placement.
• Be knowledgeable about the facilities and services within our hotels and be proactive in the sale of these to guests.
• Promote and contribute to a harmonious working environment where all employees are treated with respect and dignity.
• Ensure Hastings Quality standards and procedures are fully understood and implemented.
• Assist guests with any reasonable request for hotel services.
• Ensure the service areas, fixtures and equipment are properly maintained and presented to Hastings standards.
• Maintain a safe environment in compliance with health, safety, fire, hygiene and security legislation and company policies and procedures.
• Ensure compliance with all matters relating to licensing laws, Customs and Excise Regulations and other relevant legislation.
• Any other duties as required by the management team.

Year Two Expectations

• Support the management and motivation of employees through effective communication, training, and development in accordance with company policies and relevant employment legislation, ensuring HR procedures are followed.
• Carry out the role of Duty Manager at your assigned property.
• Support the team with responding to queries and complaints, finding the appropriate solution.
• Maintain effective communication and relationships with other hotel departments to ensure guest satisfaction.

Learning & Development

• Engage fully in each rotation, building skills in hospitality operations from entry level through to supervisory and managerial roles.
• In year two, complete the accredited qualification in partnership with Ulster University covering leadership, KPIs, service excellence, change management, and team building.
• Actively take responsibility for your personal learning, development, and reflection throughout the programme.

Required Criteria

• The right to work in the UK.
• A professional appearance.
• A passion for hospitality and delivering memorable experiences.
• Educated to Level 2 (GSCE) or the equivalent with grades A–C in English and Mathematics.
• Exceptional attention to detail, ensuring our standards of service and presentation are met.
• A collaborative and positive attitude, with the ability to work well within a team to achieve success.
• Ability to commute to our various locations across Northern Ireland (a driving licence is not required).

Desired Criteria

• Educated to Level 6 (Undergraduate Degree) or the equivalent in a relevant field such as Tourism and Hospitality Management.
• Previous experience in hospitality.

Closing Date Friday 1st May 2026

Contract Type Full‑time

Salary Up to £25,160.00 yearly

Equal Opportunities Employer Hastings Hotels is an Equal Opportunities Employer.