HIT Training develops UK’s first Level 5 Hospitality Operations Manager Apprenticeship

Leading hospitality and catering training provider HIT Training has introduced a Level 5 Hospitality tailored Operations Manager Apprenticeship, which will equip future leaders with essential, multi-operational skills that meet the fast-evolving demands of the hospitality industry. Now open for enrolment, the 18-month programme is the first operational management apprenticeship to be specifically adapted for the hospitality industry and raises the standard for training hospitality leaders who can deliver real impact for their employers.

The Level 5 Hospitality Operations Manager Apprenticeship was developed by HIT Training in direct response to the challenges of the current Level 4 Hospitality Manager Apprenticeship, which achieved a national completion rate of just 29% – far below the 62% minimum benchmark. Compared to the Level 4 Hospitality Manager programme, the Level 5 apprenticeship offers a far more comprehensive approach to training, with greater flexibility and enhanced support to mitigate the current high failure rates and drive successful outcomes for both learners and employers.

Unlike Level 4, which has been criticised for its restrictive assessment structure, the Level 5 programme is designed to align more closely with the practical needs of today’s hospitality sector, particularly by addressing critical gaps in leadership, strategic management and operational knowledge – creating a pathway to building a broader and deeper skill set. Apprentices who successfully complete the programme can register as full members with the Chartered Management Institute (CMI), putting them on the journey to Chartered Manager status after 3 years of management experience.

Through the Level 5 programme, learners are equipped with real-world skills to manage multi-site operations and lead high-performing teams. For employers, the Level 5 apprenticeship offers a tangible return on investment by producing capable leaders who can make immediate, measurable contributions to the business.

Key Advantages of the Level 5 Hospitality Operations Manager Apprenticeship:

● Advanced Leadership Development: The Level 5 programme dives deeper into strategic areas like financial and change management, team leadership and effective talent management. Apprentices are equipped to address high turnover rates through strong onboarding practices, multicultural team management and maintaining service standards. These skills prepare them for complex roles that drive real impact within hospitality.

● Industry-Relevant, Ethical Training: Each module integrates the latest in sustainability and Equity, Diversity, and Inclusivity (EDI), preparing learners to lead with integrity and meet the growing demand for responsible practices in hospitality.

● Flexible Learning for Immediate Impact: Designed for the hospitality workforce, this programme offers flexible, practical learning options like multimedia resources, peer problem-solving, and data-driven operational training. Apprentices gain skills in advanced hospitality software, revenue management and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) project management – applying these tools in real-time to create immediate value for their employers.

Micaela Barlow, Quality and Curriculum Director at HIT Training, commented:

“We know that staffing challenges are a major concern for hospitality operators, and they need to be confident their investment in training programmes pays off. That’s why, through engaging with employers and learners, HIT Training has developed the UK’s first tailored Level 5 Hospitality Operations Manager Apprenticeship, which directly addresses the issues raised. Unlike Level 4, which has faced low completion rates due to its restrictive end point assessment requirements, our Level 5 programme offers an accessible yet rigorous path that reflects the true complexity of the hospitality industry. By building practical skills and delivering essential leadership training, we’re enabling our apprentices to drive real change within their organisations and achieve meaningful career progression. We’re confident that our Level 5 programme offers exactly what the industry needs to thrive and addresses the issues hospitality businesses have been facing to date.”