The Master Innholders has opened applications for the Master Innholders Aspiring Leaders Diploma (MIALD), its flagship development graduate programme dedicated to identifying, supporting and accelerating the next generation of hospitality leaders.
For well over a decade, the Aspiring Leaders Diploma has played a critical role in strengthening the hospitality leadership pipeline, equipping high-potential hoteliers with the skills, confidence and commercial understanding needed to progress into senior leadership roles.
Comprising eight modules taking place at key dates throughout the 12-month period, participants experience an immersive programme hosted at various leading hotels and venues across the UK, including Pennyhill Park Hotel & Spa, The Belfry, Foxhills Club and Resort, and many more.
Each module is carefully designed to blend strategic leadership development with practical insight into people management, financial acumen, operational excellence and professional growth.
Speaking on the opening of applications, James B. Clarke MI, Chair of The Master Innholders, said:
“Hospitality has an extraordinary depth of talent, but progression doesn’t always happen without the right support. The Aspiring Leaders Diploma exists to nurture that potential, giving emerging leaders the tools, confidence and perspective they need to grow, while helping businesses invest in the future strength of their leadership teams.”
The programme also provides access to a wide network of industry peers, senior leaders and mentors, with participants working towards the internationally recognised Level 5 Award from the Institute of Leadership & Management (ILM). Endorsed by the Institute of Hospitality and awarded the Princess Royal Training Award three times in a row, the diploma combines formal learning with exposure to best-practice leadership across the sector.
Current student of the 2025 MIALD programme, Anastasia Barnes, Operations Manager at Padstow Harbour Hotel, said:
“The Aspiring Leaders Diploma has genuinely re-ignited my love for the industry. Visiting exceptional hotels as part of the programme has only strengthened my passion to keep progressing. Each module feels meaningful and immediately applicable; I find myself returning to my hotel with new ideas and thinking about what changes or improvements we can make.
“The marketing module in particular really stood out to me; it opened my eyes to the crucial relationship between operational teams and marketing, and how easily that connection can be overlooked.”
Prospective applicants are invited to complete an application form with a supporting statement from their General Manager or sponsor. These should be sent, along with a CV via email to?hilary@merlin-consultancy.com
Deadline for applications is Friday 27 February 2026. If selected, you must be available for an in-person interview in the City of London on the morning of Thursday 26th March 2026.
Download an application form here and for more information about the Master Innholders Aspiring Leaders Diploma, download this year’s official programme.
