University of Derby
The University of Derby's Centre for Contemporary Hospitality and Tourism brings together the university's expertise in events, tourism and hospitality management, three disciplines the centre treats not as separate silos but as overlapping parts of a single 'visitor economy'.
A recognised leader across the visitor economy
Derby's courses are consistently ranked in the Guardian University Guide's top 25 for Hospitality, Event Management and Tourism, and the university was the first in the UK to become a member of the International Centre of Excellence in Tourism and Hospitality Education. Students studying International Hospitality Management, International Tourism Management or Event Management share core modules, giving them a genuinely rounded view of how these fields work together in practice.
Learning through real industry connections
Derby's hospitality programmes carry strong partnerships with major international employers, including Marriott, Leonardo Hotels UK and Ireland, and Conrad Hilton, alongside prestigious country clubs across the United States. Field trips and study abroad opportunities in year two extend that reach further, giving students direct exposure to hospitality operations beyond the UK.
Studying at Derby's Centre for Contemporary Hospitality and Tourism offers several distinct strengths:
- Top 25 ranking for Hospitality, Event Management and Tourism in the Guardian University Guide
- The first UK university admitted to the International Centre of Excellence in Tourism and Hospitality Education
- Strong direct partnerships with Marriott, Leonardo Hotels and Conrad Hilton
- Shared modules across hospitality, tourism and events for a genuinely broad skillset
- Dedicated Personal Academic Tutoring for every student from day one
A launchpad into the visitor economy
Graduates move into hotel, tourism, event and allied roles such as marketing, PR and HR across the UK and beyond, carrying with them both specialist knowledge and a genuinely rounded view of the wider hospitality sector. For candidates seeking a hospitality education with strong, direct employer relationships, Derby offers a well connected path.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is headhunting?
Headhunting is the direct, proactive approach of specific professionals for a specific role, rather than waiting for applications. It is common for senior, scarce or confidential positions. CourtesyMasters has practised headhunting and direct sourcing for hospitality since 1999, always discreetly and with respect for everyone involved.
What is a boutique executive search firm?
A boutique executive search firm is a small, specialised practice that takes on a limited number of assignments with senior attention, in contrast to large, volume-driven firms. CourtesyMasters has worked this way since 1999: a dedicated team, deep hospitality roots and personal involvement from first briefing to final placement. Read more about us.
What is the difference between executive search and recruitment?
Recruitment typically fills open vacancies through advertising and applications. Executive search works the other way around: a consultant proactively identifies and approaches accomplished professionals, including those not actively looking, and guides both sides through a confidential, structured process. CourtesyMasters combines both disciplines, always with a hospitality focus.
What is executive search?
Executive search is a specialised form of recruitment for senior and hard-to-fill positions. Instead of waiting for applications, a search partner proactively identifies, approaches and assesses proven professionals, often confidentially. CourtesyMasters has applied this craft exclusively to hospitality since 1999, through a structured six-step methodology. Discover more about executive search services.
How can I report recruitment fraud or impersonation involving CourtesyMasters?
If you receive a suspicious message or offer that claims to come from CourtesyMasters, please contact us directly before responding. We will confirm whether the communication is genuine and take action to protect you.
Where is CourtesyMasters headquartered?
CourtesyMasters is headquartered in The Hague, The Netherlands, and works internationally from hubs in Madrid, Florence, Rome, London, Monaco and Cannes. See our locations for the full overview.
When was CourtesyMasters founded?
CourtesyMasters was founded in Rotterdam, The Netherlands, in 1999. From Rotterdam to the world: over more than twenty-five years we have grown into an international hospitality search partner built on trust and discretion, working today from our headquarters in The Hague. Read more in our story.