The Ascott Limited has launched a global training academy to strengthen and grow its workforce and cultivate a strong pipeline of talent.

Ascott Global Academy for Excellence (AGAX), which was unveiled at the biennial Ascott Global Conference, held in Singapore this week, is designed to equip associates with the necessary skills and knowledge for success in the ever-changing hospitality industry.

The launch of AGAX is one of a string of initiatives to be unveiled by the company throughout its year-long ‘Ascott Unlimited’ campaign to mark its 40th year in business.

“The Ascott Global Academy for Excellence is a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to elevate employee engagement, drive operational excellence, and deliver unparalleled guest experiences,” said Ascott Chief Strategy Officer and Managing Director, Southeast Asia, Wong Kar Ling.

“By prioritising continuous learning and development, Ascott aims to nurture a workforce that is not only adept at meeting current challenges but also poised to capitalise on future opportunities in the dynamic hospitality industry.

“This will allow Ascott to uplift our human capital while providing best-in-class hospitality products and services as a preferred accommodation of choice for our property owners and guests.”

An extension of the Ascott Centre for Excellence (ACE), a hospitality training centre in Singapore that provides training courses to the wider industry, and led by the Ascott Learning Council, AGAX is a collaboration with accredited learning partners that will see associates from around the world receive training both in person and virtually.

Using a systematised and outcome-based learning method, AGAX will offer apprenticeship programmes, hospitality and service training courses, as well as personal development programmes.

Ascott’s Chief Operating Officer, Europe, Middle East, Africa (EMEA), South Asia and China, Lee Ngor Houai, said it is imperative that the company invests in the personal and professional development of its team members.

“With the launch of the Ascott Global Academy for Excellence, we aim to cultivate a culture where every Ascott associate is equipped with the tools and resources needed to thrive in their roles,” said Lee Ngor Houai.

“The academy will focus on core competencies training to hone knowledge and deepen skillsets that will elevate Ascott’s standards in the delivery of hospitality service. Ascott also seeks to attract talents who are passionate about joining the industry by offering robust and specialised learning programmes.

“In addition to building a strong talent pipeline with unlimited opportunities for growth and development, Ascott will spotlight opportunities to celebrate and recognise our associates, empowering them to be at their best so that they will in turn be at their best for our guests.”