Hotel Management Graduate Programme 2026

Be Yourself - Be a Bold Team Player - Be Leonardo

Once you're part of the team, you're part of the Leonardo community of over 55 hotels across the UK & Ireland!

Successful applicants will be considered for opportunities across multiple Leonardo Hotels locations in the UK and Ireland.

Just about to graduate or graduated last year and wondering what's next? With over 57 hotels in the UK & Ireland and over 300 worldwide, and award winning L&D offerings, we have exciting opportunities to not only take part in our graduate programme but also grow within an ever expanding company to achieve your career goals with the support of our L&D programmes.

Graduate Programme (18 month Management Development Programme)

The programme is a challenging mix of work experience, off the job learning and self learning. You will be exposed to as much of the hotel operation as possible through departmental rotation and relationship with the Deputy General Manager or Operations Manager.

In the first 3 6 months the focus will be on the Duty Manager role and responsibilities.

The contract is fixed term, with the aim of securing a permanent management role by the end of the programme.

What We Are Looking For

• A passion for genuine hospitality
• A proactive, positive and resilient attitude
• A degree in any of the following disciplines: Hotel/Leisure/Tourism or International Hospitality
• Ideally, you have previously worked in an operational role in Hotels, Leisure or Tourism
• Flexibility on placement location to get the best out of your programme

What's In It For You

18 month Management Development Programme with extensive personal and professional development. You will receive support from industry professionals with a dedicated mentor and a programme sponsor.

What's Next

Applications close July 2026. We will be in touch by August 2026. You will take part in a 2 step process - a assessment centre and, if successful, a final interview with the General Manager of your placement hotel. Opportunities to start with us from August/September with the graduate programme commencing November 2026.

Perks

• Special rates on Leonardo Hotel rooms across the UK & Europe
• Company wide recognition scheme: earn vouchers to spend on a wide range of high street shops
• Talent referral scheme
• Thank You Week: from ice cream trucks to yoga classes and lots in between!
• Wellbeing Calendar
• Ongoing job related training programmes with clear paths for progression

We're committed to creating a workplace where every individual-regardless of background, identity, or lived experience-is welcomed, valued, and respected for who they are. Belonging means embracing our differences and ensuring everyone feels seen, heard, and empowered.

We are a Disability Confident Employer and a member of the Valuable 500. We partner with social enterprises to change attitudes towards disability, and provide opportunities ensuring everyone is able to fulfil their potential at work.