MARRIOTT International, in cooperation with Cornell University, on Monday launched its Tahseen program, a unique hospitality training program that focuses on fast-tracking next-generation Saudi leaders. Tahseen aims to provide a springboard to launch successful careers in the country’s robust hospitality sector.

The launch event, which took place at the Ritz-Carlton in Riyadh, was attended by over 100 people comprised of VIPs and all Tahseen participants. Introducing the program, David Leman, Marriott International’s Chief HR Officer Middle East & Africa, said: “With hands-on training, expert guidance, and invaluable, full exposure to the business of running a hotel, the Tahseen program will set participants up for a bright future in the industry. We’re very excited to see the begin their onboarding program following today’s inauguration.”

Developed in conjunction with Cornell University and supported by key partner DUR Hospitality, Tahseen was specifically launched for Saudi Nationals and will run over a course of 12 to 18 months. The program offers graduates six months of cross-exposure to all departments, as well as six to 12 months of departmental specialization led by a team of professional leaders across Marriott’s participating hotels, as well as a managerial opportunity at the end of the course. It also provides graduates access to Marriott International’s world-renowned core management development programs.

Participants will undertake extensive education through the Cornell e-learning platforms, culminating in a Cornell University run executive development program in country, tailored specifically for the Saudi National participants. This will result in a formal certificate qualification with Cornell University, one of the leasing providers of hospitality education globally. Tom Kline, Executive Director and Director of Executive Education at Cornell University, was present for the launch of Tahseen and emphasized Cornell University’s commitment and excitement in driving the development of Saudi nationalism as a key pillar of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s economy.

Of the 32 participants, seven are women. Earlier this year marked the first-ever time a Saudi Arabian woman became a General Manager in the hospitality industry, and as it continues to be one of the fastest-growing sectors in the country, an increasing number of women are taking part in programs such as Tahseen to help them open new doors. Marriott International is committed to helping more Saudi Arabian women grow into leaders in the industry by providing them with the necessary tools and training to achieve their long-term career goals. By providing Saudi nationals – both women and men – with more opportunities to learn and develop their skills and industry knowledge, experts claim that programs such as Tahseen may also help reduce the turnover rate, eventually recruiting and retaining a higher number of Saudi Arabians not only in the hospitality industry, but also in managerial roles.

“I’m thrilled to be a part of this program – the experience I’ll be gaining from both the training, the on-site exposure to the day-to-day business, and the development programs will be a key part of my career and growth in the industry. The managerial opportunity at the end is just another bonus among the many assets of this first-rate course,” said Wafa Kheder Al Ghamdi, a Tahseen participant.

The event also included speeches from Marriott International senior executives, Alex Kyriakidis, President and Managing Director Middle East & Africa, and Tom Kline, Executive Director and Director of Executive Education at Cornell University. — SG