Borough jobs boost since arrival of hotel in town
THE borough’s newest hotel, managed by Legacy Hotels and Resorts LTD, has brought a boost to local employment figures with 37 local people now carving out a career at the Hampton by Hilton.
An impressive 78.9% per cent of the hotel staff are from Rochdale borough, including three recently arrived Ukrainians, who are building a life in the borough after escaping the war against Russia in their home country.
Keen to support the local economy, the hotel teamed up with the council’s work and skills and employment links teams to focus recruitment among local people.
And now, the team are working in a variety of different roles, including food and beverage, housekeeping, accounts, sales and reservations.
General manager, Ashleigh Thompson, who is a native of Swansea but now lives in Littleborough, said: “I’ve always been struck by the friendly and open nature of Rochdale residents, and it was exactly those qualities we sought when establishing a team when opening the hotel.
“Our team here is nothing short of amazing, embodying a wonderful diversity. For instance, our food and beverage assistant, who recently completed training at Hopwood Hall College, was eager to kick-start their career and start earning. Additionally, our Ukrainian employees, becoming the sole breadwinners for their families, have found working here has helped them integrate into their new community. I can’t imagine how difficult things are for them and we are proud to be supporting them in this small way.
“I’m a great example of what a career in hospitality can do – growing up on a council estate, starting out as a pot washer, and now running a Hilton Hotel. This industry offers incredible opportunities for those with a can-do attitude.
“Beyond personal growth, there’s a broader community benefit to employing locals. They become the best ambassadors for the area, offering genuine recommendations to guests. Recently, a guest shared with me that the service from our team was the best they’ve ever experienced in a hotel. We take pride in not only providing exceptional hospitality but also in being a supportive force for our employees and contributing to the positive fabric of our community.”
Recently promoted Carina Severino, 25, said: “I live near the Rochdale town centre tram stop, so I’ve seen the town centre completely change since I moved here, and the improvements are incredible. I really enjoy my job and engaging with visitors. I want to progress in my career here because the culture is so supportive. I’ve already won employee of the month and been promoted from receptionist to guest relations supervisor. Feeling valued and being recognised for my hard work in this way really spurs me on.”
The 146 bedroom hotel, Hilton’s first venture in Rochdale, opened in
Rochdale town centre in September and business has been buoyant. The hotel has already fulfilled more than 10,398 stays, with guests coming from as far afield as Spain, Italy, Portugal, the USA and Africa.
Councillor Danny Meredith, cabinet member for regeneration and housing at Rochdale Borough Council, said: “The importance of physical regeneration is the difference it makes to our residents’ lives and this impressive development, the latest in a long line of major investment projects which have been delivered in the borough, is proof positive of the benefits it brings.
“I’m delighted, but not surprised, to see that the Hampton by Hilton is already doing well, and that our local residents are playing such a big part in this success and reaping the benefits of a good career. Rochdale borough has always had a reputation for welcoming and supporting people and that’s why I’m particularly pleased that some of our Ukrainian residents have also taken jobs here. I hope this is helping them rebuild their lives in some small way as best they can.”
The Hampton by Hilton Hotel is part of the £65m Upperbanks development in Rochdale town centre, which also includes 242 new highquality rental apartments. The Upperbanks development was delivered by RDA (Rochdale Development Agency) on behalf of Rochdale Borough Council, with Willmott Dixon acting as the main contactors.