CLEVELAND — The Huntington Convention Center in Downtown Cleveland was buzzing with activity on Thursday as hundreds of people attended the first-ever “Work in Travel Hiring Fair” organized by the Cleveland Hotel Association. With the city gearing up to host several major events this year, the job fair showcased over 250 job openings in the hospitality industry, ranging from administration to housekeeping to security.
Representatives from twelve hotels and four venues, including the Huntington Convention Center, the Great Lakes Science Center, Levy Restaurants, and the Guardians were present at the event. Hilton Cleveland Downtown General Manager Tammy LeBlanc was excited to fill 50 to 60 positions and highlighted the industry’s potential career opportunities, as well as the upcoming events such as the Women’s Final Four and the solar eclipse.
Jared Daly of the Cuyahoga County Board of Developmental Disabilities emphasized the importance of inclusivity at the job fair, ensuring that the event was accessible to all members of the community, including those with disabilities and immigrants.
One woman was even hired on the spot for a housekeeping job at The Ritz-Carlton, highlighting the success and impact of the event. Karen Pesavento expressed her hope of landing a job in administration, emphasizing the significance of job opportunities in the hotel industry.
The Cleveland Hotel Association revealed that currently, 12% of hotel positions in the city are open, a significant improvement from a year ago when 24% of positions were vacant.
Historically, Cleveland has been known for its rich culture and vibrant tourism industry, attracting visitors from around the world. With the anticipation of upcoming events like the Women’s Final Four and the Pan Am Games, the city is set for a busy and successful year in the hospitality sector.
The “Work in Travel Hiring Fair” not only highlighted the job opportunities in the hospitality industry but also served as a testament to Cleveland’s resilience and determination to bounce back from the challenges posed by the pandemic. The event’s success demonstrated the city’s commitment to inclusivity and job creation.
Leave a Reply