EHL Hospitality Business School: where future top talent takes shape

From school to leadership roles in international hospitality sector

The world of hospitality and hospitality is constantly changing. A forward-looking education that responds to trends is therefore crucial. At the top is Switzerland's EHL Hospitality Business School in Lausanne, a prestigious institute that innovatively prepares students for the dynamics of the industry. With a thorough package of theory, hands-on networking opportunities and digital tools, students develop technical and managerial skills. Dr Achim Schmitt, dean of the EHL Hospitality Business School explains to us how this approach takes concrete shape.

The EHL Hospitality Business School combines academic theory with practical training to provide a comprehensive learning experience. That approach encourages students to develop not only technical skills, but also important soft skills such as adaptability, teamwork and emotional intelligence. "By working on real projects, carrying out practical activities and using digital tools, students receive a versatile education that prepares them for leadership roles in the hospitality industry and beyond," says Dr Achim Schmitt, dean of the EHL Hospitality Business School. "It is our ambition to train people to become attentive professionals who can handle complex tasks and lead without losing sight of the human aspect."

In addition, EHL ensures that its study programmes are aligned with ever-changing industry trends and new consumer expectations. "We strive to remain flexible in an industry that is constantly changing. We do this by regularly adapting our programmes to changes in the market. Our faculty works closely with industry professionals and researchers. Thus, we incorporate contemporary challenges such as sustainability, digital transformation and changing consumer behaviour into our curriculum. We encourage a mindset of continuous learning to give our graduates the ability to adapt and innovate in a rapidly changing hospitality landscape."

International goals

Preparing students for leadership does not just mean giving them the right knowledge. EHL takes specific steps to prepare its students for leadership roles in the international hospitality industry. According to the school, it is important to encourage them to develop their soft skills, such as empathy, cultural flexibility and collaboration. 

"Through internships and hands-on projects, our students encounter practical challenges that prepare them for management positions," says Achim Schmitt. "Our career coaches support students in mapping out their own professional path, whether in hospitality, finance, real estate or beyond. Former EHL students hold managerial positions in various industries, and we are proud to help students develop skills useful in different sectors. In addition, students who would like to start their own business can participate in a special programme. For example, in the third year, during their internship at the EHL Innovation Hub, they get the chance to start their own start-up."

Cooperation with the industry

In addition to career coaches, EHL works with leading companies in the sector. In this way, it aims to provide students with practical experiences, networking opportunities and valuable learning opportunities. "We value our strong relationships with companies in the hospitality and related industries," says the dean. "The EHL Alliance, our global business network, connects students with a wide range of prestigious companies, offering internships, employment opportunities and industry insights." 

In addition, EHL has partnerships with renowned brands such as Cartier and LVMH. These are integrated into two specialisations within the Master in Hospitality Management (MiHM) programme, allowing students to learn about the luxury goods sector directly. These collaborations offer a deeper understanding of good service, brand heritage and customer experience in high-end sectors. "In turn, our undergraduate programme includes several specialisation tracks, allowing students to tailor their studies to their interests and career ambitions. Whether they focus on luxury brand management, finance or entrepreneurship, students have the opportunity to work on projects relevant to the industry, connect with experts and develop a network that supports their professional growth."

Success stories from former students

Through internship programmes, career fairs and partnerships with companies, students also make useful contacts and gain practical experience. They gain first-hand insight into the realities of the sector through guest lectures by professionals, mentorships and real consulting projects. "This not only increases their understanding of the hospitality sector, but also provides a solid foundation for their professional pathway," explains Achim Schmitt. 

That EHL's approach pays off is shown by the success stories of former students. Such as Switzerland's Kitro, which uses artificial intelligence to tackle food waste in kitchens in an automated way. Beelong is another example. They analyse and communicate the environmental impact of food products through the ECO-SCORE®. "EHL is fortunate to have a global network of alumni making meaningful contributions to the hospitality sector. Many of them are creating impact by engaging in entirely new customer experiences, leading the way on sustainability and launching innovative hotel concepts. Others have applied their skills in related sectors such as consulting, technology and investment, perfectly demonstrating the versatility of an education at EHL. The ability of each of them to think strategically, lead with empathy and adapt to changing markets highlights the soundness of our approach. The achievements of our former students serve as inspiration for current students and reinforce the idea that the skills they develop at EHL are of great value, whatever professional path they choose."