The TALENT Conference 2025

Nicolas Hamilton, Speaker and Racing Car Driver

Overcoming adversity - learning from continual failure

Failure is a vital part in everyone’s character building process, but to most failure seems like pain and unhappiness. Nic uncovers how he has welcomed failure, and shares the understanding gained and how he has used such experiences to re-evaluate and build his career as a professional racing driver.

Barry Makin, Cromlix

"My 21 year stop gap! Embracing the Limitless Potential of Hospitality"

In this keynote, I share my 21-year journey through the world of hospitality—starting as a zero-hour bartender in a temporary role and rising to become the general manager of a multi-award-winning hotel, including the prestigious title of AA Hotel of the Year 2024. This story celebrates hospitality as an extraordinary profession, where passion, perseverance, and vision can transform challenges into opportunities. Join me in exploring how the only limits in this industry are the ones you set for yourself, and why hospitality is the ultimate career for those who dare to dream big.

Steve Timoney, Crossbasket and Caledonian Gladiators (basketball) owner

“The Power to become a Hospitality Nation lies within us”

The Scottish brand is the most powerful national brand on Earth. It is cultivated in a rich and deep history and breathtaking landscapes that call on you. Explore the thought that a 5 star service and a USP is no longer good enough to build a loyal and excited client base. Re-imagine Scotland’s unique opportunity to become a Hospitality Nation – where every journey, every meal, and every encounter shines with the brilliance of 5 stars. The barrier to that outcome is in our own self-belief.

Caroline Johnston, Cameron House / Mhairi Strohm, Hub International / Katie Moran, voco Grand Central

Insight from 3 previous HIT scholars on their experience.

A Q&A where previous scholars will be asked about their experiences and how they have found the scholarship process to be beneficial, not only for their businesses, but also their own personal journey. A chance to explore the vast range of inspirational opportunities available to all.

Seminars

Alexia Ceppi, Head of Learning and Development, Retail Operations International at Swatch

Always Moving Forward: Insights for Personal and Team Growth

In an ever-changing world, growth is essential to thrive. This session will explore how to foster a growth mindset, leverage feedback, build resilience, and create a culture of collaboration and inclusion. We will explore practical ideas to align purpose, enhance emotional intelligence, and embrace continuous learning. Whether you're seeking personal advancement or looking to elevate your team's success, this seminar offers actionable insights to help you navigate challenges and move forward with confidence and purpose.

Jane Rennie, Founder, We Are Extraordinary Training Company

Curiosity & Agile Learning: Leaderships Skills for 2025

Modern leadership is defined by the incredible ability to learn, unlearn, and relearn—this is known as learning agility. This trait enables leaders to guide their organizations swiftly in response to both internal and external changes. Think of it as a superpower, fueled by curiosity and an openness to embrace change, all nurtured by a flexible mindset. The pandemic of 2020 served as a stark reminder of how crucial adaptability is, especially for those steering the ship. Great leaders were not just surviving through turbulent times; they were leading with resilience and foresight, guiding their teams with unwavering strength. Today’s leaders must not only be comfortable with change but must actively seek it, understanding that knowledge is an ever-evolving journey. Such leaders dedicate even 10 minutes a day to microlearning—gathering new insights or honing skills. They cultivate a mindset of unending curiosity and a passion for learning, both within themselves and their teams. This steadfast commitment to growth not only enhances personal capabilities but creates a significant ripple effect throughout the organization, inspiring all to adopt a similar mindset.

Robert Krzak, President Gecko Hospitality

From Escoffier’s Legacy to Gecko Hospitality’s Expertise: Unlocking Culinary Dreams with Life-Changing Scholarships

Auguste Escoffier - often called the "King of Chefs and Chef of Kings," Escoffier revolutionized modern cuisine and now education. The Escoffier School of Culinary Arts is a world-renowned institution where passion meets precision, empowering aspiring chefs to master their craft, ignite their creativity, and step confidently into the future of culinary excellence! Next, we turn to Gecko Hospitality, a name synonymous with excellence in connecting talent to opportunity. This powerhouse has been a trusted partner in recruiting the best leaders (over 40,000) for the hospitality world. From executive chefs to management positions, Gecko Hospitality has redefined what it means to build thriving teams for 25+ years. They represent the energy, professionalism, and problem-solving mindset that makes businesses stand out. Finally, we look at the future—through an opportunity that could open doors for aspiring chefs and visionaries. Imagine a scholarship for the Escoffier School of Culinary Arts, designed to transform passion into reality. This isn’t just about financial support—it’s about mentorship, growth, and preparing for a future in one of the most exciting industries in the world.

Mhairi Strohm, Head of Learning & Development @ Hub International David Monaghan, UK Flair Champion @ Hub International

Showmanship in Modern Hospitality

The landscape of hospitality is changing and your people hold the key to a successful future. In this seminar we will explore showmanship, the art of bringing style, confidence and creativity to your role. With a focus on flair bartending, we will discuss and demonstrate effective techniques to enhance your guest experience, turning a simple drinks order into a captivating and engaging performance. From body language to becoming a master of your tools, this session offers a modern take on flair, highlighting opportunities to turn your customers into your audience and your bar into your stage.

Amy Lightbody, Dog Digital

Decoding Digital Marketing: Keeping It Human in 2025

A whistle-stop tour of the ever-evolving world of digital marketing, designed for those who might not live and breathe hashtags and algorithms. This session aims to break down the complex digital landscape and explore why it's essential for businesses today. We'll discuss what trends you should be hopping on, why data is your best friend, how a ‘test and learn’ mindset could be your secret weapon, and more.

Gordon McIntyre, Founding Chairman of Hospitality Health and Alan Grimes, Cognitive Behavioural Therapist and Mindfulness Teacher, Concierge, Golden Keys member

Mental Health Matters

The hospitality and tourism industry is becoming more challenging for all those employed within it, from operator to supervisor and management levels. Whether you are working shifts or a 9-5 work pattern, we all experience different levels of stress, some good and some bad. How do you cope? An interactive and fun session covering positive mental health, personal wellbeing and tips for managing stress in the workplace.

Nicole Kirkland, Aimbridge

Transformational Leadership: leveraging your leadership style to inspire tomorrow's leaders"

An introduction to different leadership styles, with a short interactive quiz that will determine the audience's individual styles, then an introduction to Transformational Leadership as a model for modern leaders.

Rohan Wadke, Chef

My journey from Pune ( India ) - Glasgow. "Adapting change"

My journey from Pune to Glasgow was a transformative experience that significantly shaped my personal and professional growth. The transition from a vibrant Indian city to a dynamic Scottish environment posed various challenges, including cultural differences and language nuances. Adapting to a new educational system required flexibility and resilience, as I learned to navigate unfamiliar academic expectations. This experience not only enhanced my adaptability but also broadened my perspective, encouraging me to appreciate diversity. Ultimately, the journey profoundly impacted my identity and future aspirations.