Spotlight on Talent – Jordan Parry

Studied: HNC Hospitality Management
Progression: HND Hospitality Management

Jordan Parry’s classmates include a chef, team supervisor, two bar staff and two event managers.  As he works for Holiday Inn Express as a guest service assistant, he believes that together, they could easily run a hotel of their own.

“We’ve got so much experience already to go with what we’re learning in college that I think we’d be a success,” he said.

It helps that Jordan is ‘a multi-skilled person’, having worked in different departments at the hotel chain’s Walsall site.

So, when it came to the former media make-up student choosing an alternative study and career route, hospitality management stood out.  Especially as he was able to take inspiration and guidance from his manager.

“I had always loved the hotel environment, especially the front-facing aspect, so this course was the ideal route to switch to,” said Jordan.

“My cluster general manager at the hotel became my inspiration,” he added.  She’s an all-rounder like me and has a lot of knowledge on the hotel industry.  She supports my ambitions and has encouraged me to apply the business model theories I’m studying in class to our hotel operations.  She’s also helped me understand the qualities of a good manager.”

As a first-time student in these business-related fields, Jordan needed to adapt quickly this new environment.

“I joined the college a few weeks after everyone else, so was on the backfoot,” Jordan explained.

“The language and terminology being used in class was a bit of a culture shock at first.  I hadn’t ever come across a SWOT analysis and the PESTLE business models.  It was like a whole other language.”

On top of this, Jordan found himself tackling five courses assignments in one go; something he achieved while continuing his hotel role.  He then came away with an overall Distinction grade for his HNC.

“Time management and planning out your work are the two key things that keep you grounded and on track with everything,” said Jordan.

“Ultimately though, having worked in pretty much every department of Holiday Inn, I’m just bringing my career background into my studies, which I love doing.”

“It’s never too late to change direction,” Jordan continued.  “Don’t pursue something you don’t really want to.  And don’t worry about upsetting people.  How you feel is what matters.  So once you find something you enjoy, give into it.”