Many pubs, bars and restaurants are encountering difficulties recruiting staff with the necessary skills, according to a survey by sector skills council People 1st.

The survey identifies skills shortages around customer handling, technical, job specific, team working and problem-solving skills, while a dearth of candidates with people management and finance skills also seem to be hampering the industry.  

A third of respondents were finding it difficult to recruit bar managers with the required skills, attributes and experience, while one in five employers are struggling to recruit chefs.

However, the sector does appear to be addressing the skills shortage as training opportunities for staff are increasing year-on-year.  Nearly three quarters (71%) of pubs, bars and nightclubs now offering training for their staff compared to 64% in 2005 – a 7% increase. 

Neil Robertson, chief executive of the British Institute of Innkeeping, says:  “As the professional body for the licensed retail sector, we see many examples of excellence and success through diversification within our membership. Yes, times are tough for some, but licensees with entrepreneurial flair who use their initiative and take a few calculated risks can reap the rewards.  This industry is unique for budding entrepreneurs in the current climate; there is enormous scope for their talents.”

Nicola Haywood, senior consultant at Portfolio, told Recruiter: “In my experience, it has not necessarily been the skillset but the personality that has been the problem. Some bar managers I have interviewed know bar work very well but have not necessarily wanted to come out from behind the bar, working the room and chatting to guests.”

Rob Maloney, director at Kerry Robert Associates, adds: “We specialise in hospitality financial recruitment at hotel level. Hotels want someone exposed to hotel operations. There are a lot of different variables that are difficult to control. It is not just a case of putting figures together.

“You have got to be a strong communicator. It is very to lose money in this sector. These candidates grow up in hotels and finance and know what to look for in terms of being aware of losses around food costs, or incorrect invoices and revenue forecasts. The role is now more commercial than financial.”