Exeter Works helps hospitality industry to fill vacancies

Hospitality and retail businesses in Exeter are being given a supporting hand next week, as organisations across the city step in to help them to fill their vacancies in a unique, one day jobs fair.

The event is being held at the Exeter Works advice hub in Princesshay and organisers are expecting it to be popular with pre-booked slots available to enable the event to operate under current covid restrictions.

There has been an unprecedented number of vacant positions in Exeter businesses since the start of lockdown restrictions being eased back in May. Many businesses are still struggling to recruit, which puts them at risk of not being able to respond to customers returning to the high streets and visitors to the city this summer.

Ann Hunter, BID Manager at InExeter, the leading organisation supporting businesses across the city says: “Exeter benefits from a thriving hospitality and retail sector, but these sectors are only able to thrive if they are able to recruit. Since the easing of restrictions started in May, we’ve seen an unprecedented number of vacancies unfortunately still not being filled. Exeter is a great, inclusive and exciting place to work and we encourage people to attend this jobs fair

Exeter Works is a free service for anybody looking for employment or training opportunities. The initiative, which is a partnership between Exeter City Council and Exeter Chamber, was established with the aim of helping the economic recovery of the Exeter economy. It offers free advice through its website and city centre advice hub, with a specific service for those aged 16-24, the Youth Hub Devon.

Councillor Rachel Sutton, at Exeter City Council, said: “We know there are some sectors which have been more dramatically affected than others through the pandemic. Through our collaboration and working with our incredible sponsors and partner organisations we believe this joined up and proactive approach will be key to supporting people who are looking for work and help Exeter to build back better.”

The event will take place on Thursday 15 July 10am – 2pm at the Exeter Works advice hub in Princesshay.

People are encouraged to follow Exeter Works on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn, and can make their appointment for next Thursday’s event by visiting:

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/hospitality-and-retail-jobs-fair-tickets-161484990955