Hospitality Management jobs in South Africa

Accelerate is a youth development program in hospitality management or professional cookery spanning 3 years, aimed at South African nationals to increase engagement and interest in this growing sector. The objective is to ensure each individual receives practical and formal academic development, forming a foundation for a career in hospitality.

A requirement to apply for the Accelerate Program is a year of practical working experience in a hotel. If the experience is with a Marriott hotel, the individual is referred to as an Orientation Trainee. The purpose of the Orientation year is to gain realism of career choice and suitability for the industry; before committing to the 3‑year long program. Completing the Orientation year is not a guarantee to be accepted onto the 3‑year program; candidates must apply for the first year intake towards the end of their Orientation year.

Here’s to exploring a kick‑starting your dream career and joining us on your journey!

During the Orientation year, Hospitality Management Trainees work across all hotel departments; Professional Cookery Trainees work across all sections that contribute to hotel operations, gaining practical insight and deciding whether to apply for the 3‑year program.

Orientation Trainees must follow company policies, maintain professional appearance, keep confidential information, protect company assets, welcome and acknowledge guests, anticipate service needs, use professional language in telephone etiquette, build positive relationships, listen and respond appropriately, comply with quality assurance standards, read and verify information in various formats, and perform physical tasks such as moving objects up to 5 kg and standing or walking for extended periods. They may also be asked to perform other reasonable duties.

• South African citizen by birth
• Between 18 and 22 years old and not turning 23 during the application year
• Matric (Grade 12) certificate or equivalent accredited NQF or NCV Level 4 qualification
• Passed all 7 Matric subjects; preferably 50 % or higher in each
• Applicants not meeting the subject results will be reviewed case‑by‑case
• Only applicants without any post‑Matric/​NQF 4/​NCV 4 qualifications are considered

• Matric Certificate and/or Statement of Results (current matric students should submit September report card)
• Curriculum Vitae
• Cover letter outlining reasons for applying

• Professional workplace and learning opportunities within the hospitality industry
• Part of Marriott International, the world’s largest hotel company, with career possibilities
• Personal coaching and training for career development
• Take Care program focusing on wellbeing with healthy and fun activities throughout the year

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Self‑directed and able to work without supervision
• Team player able to work individually and with co‑workers
• Energetic and eager to tackle new projects
• Highly motivated, thrives in a multi‑tasking fast‑paced environment
• Passionate about the hospitality industry and making things brilliant
• Punctual with strong organizational skills
• Flexible with shifts (AM, PM, night)
• Good communication and social skills

The 3‑year In‑Service Trainee Program lets you experience the industry from the ground up in Marriott culture, identifying your true calling. Trainees are placed at different Marriott hotels each year, gaining exposure to city‑centre resort, country, and varying star‑grade hotels. Each year focuses on different aspects of the business while discipline exposure may overlap:

• Hospitality Management: 1st year Food & Beverage operations; 2nd year Rooms Division operations; 3rd year Back‑of‑house & managerial operations.
• Professional Cookery: 1st year Cold Food preparation; 2nd year Hot Food preparation; 3rd year Full‑range food preparation & managerial operations.

Theoretical knowledge is delivered through study release periods at hotel or culinary school, short courses, and online modules, with a portfolio of evidence. Graduates are required to work for Marriott for one year after graduation and are supported in finding full‑time permanent employment.

At Marriott International we are dedicated to being an equal‑opportunity employer, welcoming all and providing access to opportunity. We foster an environment that values diverse backgrounds and experiences, and are committed to non‑discrimination on any protected basis, including disability, veteran status, or other protected characteristics.