Hays Travel has announced a significant recruitment initiative aimed at hiring seasonal foreign exchange cashiers across its extensive network of 470 branches.This move is in preparation for the peak summer period, ensuring that each branch is well-equipped to handle currency exchange demands.
The recruitment drive is open to applicants aged 17 and over, with no prior experience required. Successful candidates will undergo comprehensive training, equipping them with the necessary skills to excel in their roles.
Details of the Recruitment Drive
Hays Travel’s latest recruitment effort focuses on hiring 134 seasonal foreign exchange consultants and 39 permanent consultants. The goal is to ensure all 470 branches have a dedicated cashier during the busy summer period. This initiative follows a successful pilot scheme conducted last year, which saw the recruitment of 55 consultants, three of whom have remained as permanent staff whilst others transitioned to different roles within the company.
Applicants for the seasonal roles must be at least 17 years old, and no prior experience is necessary. Candidates will undergo a three-week training programme, including one week of classroom instruction and two weeks of in-branch experience. Upon completion, new hires will have the flexibility to choose their working hours and days, with part-time options available to suit various schedules.
Selection Criteria and Expectations
According to Jonathon Woodall-Johnston, Hays Travel’s Chief Operating Officer, the company is looking for individuals with a strong customer service approach, trustworthiness, and the ability to work well in a team environment. Successful recruits will have the option to decide how long they wish to stay with the company, offering considerable flexibility in their employment terms.
Alex Burns, a foreign exchange sales consultant at Hays Travel’s Birtley branch, shared his positive experience, stating, “My seasonal contract was due to end in September, but with hard work and the support of a fantastic team, I now have a permanent contract.”
Training and Support Programme
The training programme is designed to equip new consultants with essential skills and knowledge. After an initial week of classroom-based learning, recruits spend two weeks working in a branch, gaining hands-on experience.
Beccy Rayner, head of foreign exchange field sales, highlighted, “We have a total of 134 seasonal vacancies and 39 permanent vacancies. The vast majority of our branches currently have a dedicated currency bureau.” This structured approach ensures that new hires are well-prepared to meet customer needs effectively.
Post-training, employees can tailor their schedules, opting for full-time or part-time work as per their preference, thus accommodating a range of personal circumstances.
Impact of Seasonal Staff
The recruitment of seasonal staff aims to bolster Hays Travel’s capacity to manage increased demand during the summer. The company’s previous pilot scheme proved successful, with many recruited consultants either staying on permanently or moving to other roles within the company. This indicates a high retention rate and satisfaction level among recruits.
Jane Schumm, Hays Travel’s retail director, praised the contribution of cabin crew staff recruited last year, noting, “Our cabin crew colleagues were a real asset to Hays Travel, and recruiting them into our branches has been a huge success.”
Expanding Roles and Opportunities
Hays Travel’s recruitment initiative is not limited to seasonal roles but includes opportunities for long-term careers within the company. The company plans to repeat a recruitment drive later this year, specifically targeting cabin crew staff, following the success of a similar campaign last year which saw 148 airline employees hired.
This strategic move not only addresses the immediate need for foreign exchange consultants but also builds a pipeline of talent that can be developed and retained within the company. As pointed out by Beccy Rayner, “This initiative ensures that our branches are well-staffed and prepared to meet customer demands year-round.”
Flexibility and Career Growth
One of the key attractions of these roles at Hays Travel is the flexibility offered to recruits. Employees can choose their working hours and days, making it an ideal opportunity for individuals seeking a balance between work and personal commitments.
The company’s commitment to employee development is evident in its structured training programme and supportive work environment. As Jonathon Woodall-Johnston emphasized, “We’re looking for people with a customer service approach, who are trustworthy and work well in a team.”
Employee Success Stories
Alex Burns’ journey from a seasonal role to a permanent position underscores the potential for growth within Hays Travel. His experience reflects the company’s supportive culture and commitment to recognising and nurturing talent.
Many recruits from previous drives have transitioned into various roles within the company, highlighting the multiple career pathways available to Hays Travel employees. This ongoing initiative reflects Hays Travel’s dedication to building a dynamic and capable workforce.
Conclusion
Hays Travel’s aggressive recruitment drive ahead of the peak summer period demonstrates its commitment to providing exceptional customer service and maintaining operational efficiency. This strategy not only addresses immediate staffing needs but also creates opportunities for long-term employment and career growth within the company.
With the upcoming peak summer period, Hays Travel’s recruitment drive for forex cashiers is both timely and strategic. It positions the company to effectively meet increased customer demands while offering flexible and growth-oriented opportunities for new employees.
This initiative underscores Hays Travel’s dedication to customer service excellence and its proactive approach to workforce planning. By investing in comprehensive training and offering flexible work options, the company is well-prepared to handle the busy season while fostering a supportive and dynamic work environment.
