Investors in People recently named Hays its apprentice employer of the year on account of its efforts to support young people and help them start a career in travel.

The Apprentice Employer of the Year category celebrates organisations who provide “fantastic opportunities” for apprentices to learn, develop and progress.

“They understand the apprentices of today have the potential to be the business leaders of tomorrow,” Investors in People says.

Jane Schumm, Hays’ retail and training director, said: “We are extremely proud of our apprenticeship programme and the success it brings to both individuals and to our organisation as a whole.

"Winning the Investors in People Apprentice Employer of the Year award is yet another highlight of a fantastic year at Hays Travel, which included being recognised in the Sunday Times 100 Best Companies to Work For list and achieving our £1 billion sales landmark.

“At Hays Travel, we believe apprenticeships are vital to our business. Apprentices inject the organisation with energy, ideas, enthusiasm, and interest. We in turn provide first rate training, support and clear development progression routes, resulting in invaluable long-term team members.”

The award came just days before Hays launched its 2019 apprentice recruitment programme. Further information is available from apprentice@hays-travel.co.uk or by calling 0191 510 6316.

Hays also recently picked up a silver award for Best Large Independent Travel Agency at the British Travel Awards, while Irene Hays, chair of the Hays Travel board, has been awarded an honorary doctorate of business administration from the University of Sunderland, the same honour bestowed on husband John Hays in 2010.