Four graduates from the management trainee programme at Gulliver’s Theme Park Resorts have been appointed to permanent leader roles within the company.
Gulliver’s runs the programme each year and the graduates were part of the 2023 intake. They have been appointed across different parks and within various departments, including rides and catering.
Now in its ninth year, the programme offers trainees opportunities and experience across different areas of the business on a series of placements, a commitment Gulliver’s continues to make to invest in its people and the future of the hospitality industry.
This year’s graduates are:
Kieran James, 21, from Sutton-in-Ashfield, who has been appointed Rides Supervisor at Gulliver’s Kingdom in Matlock Bath.
Fergus Gallagher, 25, from Cardiff, and Lauren Clarke-Baptiste, 23, from Leicester, who have been appointed to leader roles at Gulliver’s World in Warrington.
Kyran West, 25, from Nottingham, who has been appointed to a leader role at Gulliver’s Valley in Rotherham.
Kieran said: “I visited Gulliver’s Kingdom with my family from the age of two and always had a fantastic time. We would often visit three a year because I loved it that much! To now be a leader at Gulliver’s Kingdom is incredible. This past year has been amazing, learning a range of new skills and meeting so many new people. I’ve had the opportunity to work on some departments that I’d never thought about doing, challenging myself to go above and beyond in every job given to me, and to spreading the magic with the guests that visit our parks.
“Gulliver’s has such a special place in my heart growing up around the business and I’m so happy that all the magical memories I made here, I can now help other families create their own. To anyone who’s thinking about looking at developing their career, I would recommend looking at the trainee management scheme offered by Gulliver’s. It’s a great way to kickstart your career.”
During the programme, the graduates had to manage their own bespoke projects, receiving mentoring from senior Gulliver’s staff and provided with access to external development coaches and experts.
Dean Kimberley, director of loyalty and marketing at Gulliver’s Theme Park Resorts, said: “We are thrilled to see Kieran, Fergus, Lauren and Kyran become leaders. They have worked hard over the last year, showing real commitment to the programme, and they should feel proud of everything they have achieved.
“It is wonderful to be able to invest in our people and support them with fulfilling careers. Since 2015, we have seen 48 trainees finish the programme and 25 are still in the business and doing fantastic things.
“Our 2023 intake showed real commitment to learning new skills and gaining experience and we look forward to seeing them continue to develop their careers within the Gulliver’s family.”