Together with the Hospitality Junior Board CIC and our Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP) partners Make it York, City of York Council and the York & North Yorkshire Combined Authority, we are delighted to support Hospitality: The Leaders of Tomorrow, a brand new event for the region designed to help shape the future of hospitality.
The event, taking place on Monday 23 March 2026 at Rudding Park in Harrogate, will bring together young people working in hospitality and tourism for a day of learning, inspiration, and connection.
Created and delivered by the Hospitality Junior Board CIC and funded by the York & North Yorkshire LVEP, the event places emerging talent at the heart of the sector’s future, giving under-30s the tools, confidence, and community they need to thrive in the sector.
The hospitality sector is a crucial part of North Yorkshire’s £4.2billion visitor economy and one of the largest employers in the area. However, despite its size, many young professionals in the industry lack access to structured development, visibility, and recognition. In appreciation of this important industry, we are working closely with the Hospitality Junior Board CIC to create clear pathways to leadership, innovation, and long-term careers, ensuring hospitality is an attractive career option filled with purpose, pride, and opportunity.
The Hospitality: The Leaders of Tomorrow event is a significant step to fill this gap by directly addressing these issues, helping to attract, retain, and empower young talent across the region and secure the future of Yorkshire’s hospitality industry.
Tony Watson, our Head of Tourism commented:
“Hospitality is the heartbeat of York and North Yorkshire’s visitor economy, and its future depends on the talent we nurture today. ‘The Leaders of Tomorrow’ is more than an event – it’s a commitment to empowering young people with the skills, confidence, and connections they need to thrive. By investing in the next generation, we’re securing a vibrant, resilient hospitality sector that continues to drive pride, opportunity, and growth across our region.”
The event is free to attend and is open to anyone under 30 working in hospitality or tourism across York and North Yorkshire. Places are limited. For more information and to register interest go to hospitalityjuniorboard.co.uk/leaders-of-tomorrow.

