Conor Deasy, an apprentice Drinks Dispense Technician at AB inBev, will be attending the eighth Hospitality Apprenticeship Showcase (HAS) at the House of Commons on Wednesday 7th February 2024.

At the event, Conor will have the opportunity to meet with his local MP for the Cities of London and Westminster, Nickie Aiken, and talk about his current role and his aspirations for the future.

The highly anticipated event will unite companies across the hospitality industry once again to recognise the outstanding work carried out by apprentices in the industry. Whilst HAS portrays the diverse range of roles within the sector, it reiterates the importance of cross-party support to ensure that hospitality has the right foundations to continue to thrive in our towns, cities and villages.

Conor started his apprenticeship with AB InBev in 2022 and balanced working across Essex, East and Central London with attending the City of Wolverhampton College, where he builds on the skills he learns on the job.

Conor said: “My career has done a bit of a 180 since I started as a property manager at a lettings company, but I am so glad that I made the change to the hospitality industry. I’ve met some incredible people doing the job I do, and no two days are the same. And now, having the resources available to help me become the best technician I can be is fantastic.

“I think a lot of people associate hospitality with the in-venue roles – being a chef, front of house, or a general manager – so when I tell them what I do, they’re really interested because it’s not a career they’ve necessarily heard of or knew about. And I can tell you, you can do so many different and exciting roles in the industry; I bet I’ve not even heard of them yet!”

Now in its eighth year, over 1,200 apprentices from the hospitality sector have showcased their skills and met with Lords, Ladies, and MPs to celebrate National Apprenticeship Week, accompanied by employers, parents and colleagues.

Guests can expect to be immersed in the exciting world of hospitality at this inspiring event. The inclusive and diverse day will showcase a myriad of professions within the industry, from chefs to expert mixologists, brewers, and professional support team apprentices. Media and guests from the education sector can hear key sector information on apprenticeships and the careers offered by the companies participating on the day.

At the 2024 event attendees can hear from those who attended an earlier showcase whilst on an apprenticeship and where that has now led them along their career path. “This event never fails to inspire,” said Leisure PR’s Director Maureen Heffernan, who launched and organises the event. “To now hear from some of the amazing apprentices that previously attended the showcase is a testament to the commitment companies make in ensuring the apprenticeships offered are fit for purpose and provide limitless possibilities for career progression.”