Whether you’re aiming for career progression, a varied working environment, or the chance to contribute to Kent’s thriving visitor economy, the Tourism and Hospitality sector offers a wide range of rewarding opportunities across the county.
For many people, their first job is in the tourism and hospitality sector - whether it’s washing dishes as a kitchen porter, working in a shop on a Saturday, or assisting at a local attraction. Some individuals go on to build successful careers, owning restaurants, managing hotels, or becoming marketing directors for international brands. Others take the skills they’ve learned and apply them to different industries. No matter where your career leads, the opportunities within tourism and hospitality are vast and invaluable.
Customer Service
If you are passionate about creating positive experiences, a customer service or front-of-house role could be ideal. From hotel receptions to theme parks and visitor attractions, there are numerous roles suited for people who thrive on interaction and ensuring guests have a memorable time.
To read a story of how Gavin Kean developed his experience working within customer service roles in the Tourism & Hospitality industry, click here.
Catering
Restaurants, hotels, pubs, and attractions all require skilled chefs, cooks, and catering staff. With Kent’s abundance of fresh, local produce, the culinary scene is thriving, and you don’t need to be the next Heston Blumenthal or Jamie Oliver to make an impact in the kitchen.
To read a story of how Sam Holden developed his experience working within catering roles in the Tourism & Hospitality industry, click here.
Art and Culture
The tourism and hospitality industry includes a vast array of opportunities in the arts and culture sector. Kent is home to internationally recognised galleries, historic theatres, and breath-taking heritage sites that host world-class events. Whether you’re an artist, curator, or event planner, there are plenty of career paths to explore.
To read a story of how Jamie developed his experience working within art and culture roles in the Tourism & Hospitality industry, click here.
Sales and Marketing
From promoting visitor attractions to developing strategies for luxury hotels, sales and marketing professionals play a key role in driving business within the tourism and hospitality industry. This field offers roles in digital marketing, brand management, public relations, and event promotions.
To find out what type of businesses are avaliable to work in sales and marketing within the Tourism & Hospitality industry, click here.
Management
The industry also offers extensive managerial career paths. Whether managing a boutique hotel, overseeing a restaurant chain, or leading an events team, strong leadership and organisational skills can open the door to a fulfilling and high-responsibility career.
To read a story of how Shane Godwin developed his experience working within management roles in the Tourism & Hospitality industry, click here.
Sport and Outdoor Activities
For those who love the outdoors, there are many career options in adventure tourism, sports coaching, and outdoor recreation. From working at coastal resorts to managing activity centres, the possibilities are endless for those who enjoy active, hands-on roles.
To read a story of how Kate Rutherford developed her experience working within sport and outdoor activity roles in the Tourism & Hospitality industry, click here.
With such a diverse range of career opportunities, the tourism and hospitality sector is a fantastic place to start, grow, or switch up your career. Whether you’re looking for flexible work, long-term progression, or the chance to travel, this industry has something to offer everyone.
We’ve collected case studies of several people that work in the sector. Have a read through their stories to find out where they started and what they enjoy most, you may be inspired to follow them.
Take a look at the business profiles who are recruiting for these roles.
