Skills First Hiring in Hospitality: A Real-World Conversation with Ben Sewell

In this episode of the Global Skills Podcast, I sit down with Ben Sewell, Senior Talent Acquisition Leader in Hospitality Recruitment and Co-Founder & Podcast Host of Talking Talent, to explore the realities of hiring in today’s hospitality sector. With experience leading recruitment across casual dining, premium restaurants, and experiential brands, Ben shares insights on high attrition, labour pressures, and why skills-first hiring is reshaping hospitality talent acquisition. We discuss transferable skills from retail and customer service, the power of apprenticeships, and how hospitality builds leadership, resilience, and communication under pressure. Ben Sewell also offers honest perspectives on retention challenges, government support, and the role of AI in modern recruitment. This episode highlights why investing in skills over experience could redefine the future of hospitality hiring.