IOH launches auction to fund mentors

The Institute of Hospitality (IOH) has launched a virtual silent auction, with the aim of raising funds for the its Mentor Me mentoring scheme.

Having seen a significant spike in the popularity of Mentor Me since the pandemic, the IOH hopes that the auction will raise enough money for it to invest in technology to widen access to the programme. 

Supporters of the IOH and members of the public can silently bid for 40 auction items. Lots include 'money-can’t-buy' dining experiences with top chefs Monica Galetti, Michel Roux Jr and Marcus Wareing; chefs tables and private dinners at Michelin-starred restaurants; a seven-day luxury escape to Barbados; hotel stays in a Malmaison or Hotel du Vin property; VIP cricket and golf packages; various rare memorabilia and more.

“Our role at the institute is to make sure people working in our industry have the resources and role models to make a success of their careers so that they can shower guests and customers with the best ever customer experiences," says Robert Richardson FIH, chief executive of the IOH.

“Mentoring has proven time and again to be a fantastic way to empower people to do and be their best and I hope everyone who cares about the future of our industry will find it in their hearts to make the Institute of Hospitality Mentor Me online auction a great success."

“The Institute’s Mentor Me scheme has been a great success in providing support to our members during the darkest days of the pandemic," adds Alistair Sandall FIH, head of professional development at the IOH.

“The number of mentors and mentees involved in the scheme exceeded our expectations. Clearly, people had more time on their hands due to all the ramifications of lockdown but also, both our Members and Fellows very much wanted to put back into the industry something to help tomorrow’s managers develop, and also to help them keep their faith in hospitality as a fabulous career choice.

“The auction will help raise funds to further enhance the programme and make it more accessible to our global membership. We urge everyone who can to get involved.”

Since its roll-out three years ago, today more than 300 pairs of mentors and mentees have been involved in Mentor Me. 

To place a bid at the IOH's Mentor Me online auction, head to the website.

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