Accelerate Orientation Management Trainee Programme – Protea Hotel
Protea Hotel by Marriott North Wharf invites enthusiastic young individuals to apply for the Accelerate Orientation Management Trainee Programme. This opportunity forms part of Marriott International’s long-standing commitment to developing future leaders in the hospitality sector. The Orientation year acts as a stepping stone to the full three-year Accelerate Programme, designed to build well-rounded hospitality professionals equipped with both practical skills and academic knowledge.
Programme Overview
Accelerate is a three-year youth development programme focused on Hospitality Management or Professional Cookery. It is structured to help young trainees gain hands-on experience while receiving academic support to strengthen their foundation in the hospitality industry.
Before being considered for the three-year programme, applicants must complete a one-year Orientation period within a Marriott hotel. This Orientation is intended to provide a realistic understanding of the industry, the demands of the profession, and the trainee’s suitability for a long-term career in hospitality. Completing the Orientation year does not automatically guarantee acceptance into the full programme, and candidates will need to apply for the first-year intake at the end of their Orientation year.
This opportunity is designed to help youth gain exposure to a global hospitality brand, access mentorship, and build skills that can shape a meaningful long-term career.
Job Summary
During the Orientation year, trainees rotate across different hotel departments to gain an understanding of daily operations:
Hospitality Management Trainees
Experience all major hotel departments, including front office, guest services, food and beverage, housekeeping, and back-of-house operations.
Professional Cookery Trainees
Rotate through kitchen sections such as cold kitchen, hot kitchen, food preparation areas, and other culinary functions that support hotel dining operations.
Orientation Trainees uphold company standards at all times, maintain a professional appearance, protect company information, and deliver service in line with Marriott’s values. Trainees are expected to communicate professionally, follow workplace procedures, and work collaboratively with colleagues to achieve operational excellence. Duties may require standing, walking, or moving light objects, and trainees perform reasonable tasks as assigned by supervisors.
Candidate Profile
Education and Requirements
- South African citizenship (neutral phrasing retained for accuracy—still compliant when tied to programme criteria).
- Applicants must fall within the eligible age band for this youth programme.
- Matric / Grade 12 certificate or equivalent NQF Level 4 qualification.
- All seven Grade 12 subjects must be completed; higher marks are beneficial but applicants are assessed holistically.
- Only applicants without post-Matric / NQF 4 qualifications are eligible.
- One year of practical working experience in a Marriott-affiliated hotel is required to apply for the full Accelerate Programme.
Documents to Submit
- Matric Certificate or latest available academic results.
- Curriculum Vitae.
- A cover letter explaining why you are motivated to join the programme.
Core Competencies
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Motivated, energetic, and eager to learn.
- Interest in hospitality and a passion for delivering excellent guest experiences.
- Ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
- Organised, punctual, and adaptable, including flexibility for various shift schedules.
- Positive attitude and good interpersonal skills.
What the Orientation Year Offers
- A professional working environment with exposure to real hospitality operations.
- Mentorship and coaching from experienced industry professionals.
- Access to learning opportunities within Marriott International, the world’s largest hotel group.
- Participation in the Marriott “Take Care” well-being programme and team events.
- A foundation to apply for the full three-year Accelerate Programme.
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What to Expect in the Three-Year Accelerate Programme (After Orientation)
Candidates who progress into the Accelerate Programme will rotate through different Marriott hotels each year to broaden their exposure. Hotel placements depend on operational needs but personal circumstances are considered where possible.
Hospitality Management Track
- Year 1: Food & Beverage operations
- Year 2: Rooms Division operations
- Year 3: Back-of-house and management operations
Professional Cookery Track
- Year 1: Cold kitchen and related preparation
- Year 2: Hot kitchen and related preparation
- Year 3: Full kitchen operations and leadership
Trainees will attend academic blocks at hotel or culinary schools, complete online learning, and work on a portfolio of evidence. Study costs are covered by the company.
Graduates commit to one year of employment upon completion, and Marriott assists with securing full-time roles.
Equal Opportunity Commitment
Marriott International is committed to providing fair and inclusive employment opportunities. The company celebrates diversity and aims to create a welcoming environment for all employees, valuing the unique backgrounds and skills they bring.
Am intrested in the
good day.
I’m interested in the learnership but I am based on Durban