Vote for Springpod: Opening Doors to Hospitality 2026

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Nearly 1 million young people in the UK are NEET (not in education, employment or training). Simultaneously, hotels across the UK are struggling to fill entry-level roles.

Marriott International partnered with Springpod, Accenture and Movement to Work to turn free virtual work experience into in-person placements and jobs in Marriott hotels. Local charities like Aviard Inspires, Shaw Trust and Street League add coaching and practical support for those who need it most.

In its first year the programme reached 10,517 young people, including 408 who were not in education, employment or training, and created £8.82M in social value.

“The work experience programme actually boosted my confidence going into the interview, Especially when I was able to hear from people currently working at Marriott and hear their story. It gave me the courage to be able to go into the interview, speak my mind and be able to do well.” Deborah Ojo, Marriott Virtual Work Experience Participant

“What people don’t realise is the plethora of career pathways which are available for young people to actually shape a career in every single discipline that is inside a hotel organisation.”

‍Alex Dimsdale, Multi-Property Director of Human Resources at Marriott International

This description has been prepared from information supplied by the nominee and has not been independently verified by World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards.