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Prestigious event to recognise tourism and hospitality talent

30 Nov 2010

Scotland’s most talented tourism and hospitality workers are set to be the focus of a prestigious annual event.

In February, the annual Hospitality Industry Trust (HIT) Scotland Emerging Talent Conference will recognise the most promising staff and students from across the industry.

Thanks to £100,000 investment from HIT Scotland towards developing future leaders, a ceremony at the event in Corn Exchange, Edinburgh, will award 100 emerging talent scholarships.

The winners of the Emerging Talent Scholars Awards will embark upon world-class learning experiences at home and abroad. International destinations include Dubai, Switzerland and America.

Scholars also have the chance to work with Michelin-starred chefs or to go behind the scenes at high quality events and businesses across the UK.

The theme of the February 2nd conference is "The Professional Marketplace" and attendees can look forward to a host of expert lectures and creative workshops aimed at developing their careers.

The two keynote speakers are Michael Levie, CEO of citizenM Hotels, and Debbie Zmorenski, an executive coach and trainer from the USA with 34 years' experience with Disney. Workshops will include sessions on personal branding, social media and career management.

The Hospitality Industry Trust (HIT) Scotland Emerging Talent Conference, now in its eighth year, is the country's only event to encourage talent in the industry. David Cochrane, Chief Executive of HIT Scotland, said: "Scotland's hospitality, leisure and tourism industry is worth £11.2 billion to the local economy, yet we don't pay enough attention to the people behind these figures.

"Supporting and encouraging the leaders of tomorrow is an important step in developing the industry and ensuring the country can make the best use of its resources."

* To find out more about the event see www.hitscotland.org