Master Innholders Community Spotlight - Wioletta Rowińska

We've recently been speaking with members of the Master Innholders community to find out more about their hospitality careers, what working in hospitality means to them, as well as what they are doing currently to give back to the industry as part of their work.

This week, we spoke to Wioletta Rowińska, Rooms Division Manager at the Beaumont Hotel, who is currently studying the Talent Development Programme at Cranfield University as part of her Innholder Scholarship. She shares her experience studying on the programme so far, the importance of educational opportunities like the Innholder Scholarships, as well as advice for those looking to apply later this year.

What motivated you to apply for the Innholder Scholarships? 

It came from a deep desire to become both a better leader for my team and for the wider business. Like many in our industry, a lot of my training and skills development has come “on the job” alongside the support of my senior team. It’s given me an incredible foundation as a hotelier, but I knew I wanted to build on this and expand my skillset while also building my network and relationships within the industry. The Innholder Scholarships give hoteliers that opportunity, so I jumped at the opportunity when applications opened.

What does becoming an Innholder Scholar mean to you? 

Becoming an Innholder Scholar is truly one of the proudest moments of my career. It feels like a door to endless opportunities has just opened, and I’m both excited and humbled to step through it. For me, this scholarship represents so much more than professional development. It’s an opportunity for me and other hoteliers to grow as leaders, learn from some of the best minds in our industry, and to bring that knowledge back to inspire and support others. I’ve always believed in continuous learning, but I know that this experience will take my growth far beyond what I could achieve through self-development or learning on the job alone. 

What were your key takeaways from your first residential at Cranfield as part of the Talent Development Programme? 

Despite the long hours spent in an academic environment, the course has been designed in a way that does not overwhelm participants. The academics themselves are highly passionate about their respective modules, which clearly translates into the quality of the material and lectures.

Although I felt anxious at first, I quickly realised that the environment created was safe and non-judgmental. This encouraged me to participate fully and get the most out of each module. I feel grateful to have met so many fantastic professionals and outstanding academics who were open to sharing their experiences and engaging in meaningful discussions, exchanging ideas and knowledge.

These five days at Cranfield also helped me learn more about myself, not only as a leader, but as a person. I truly feel the programme has shifted my perspective on running a business and leading teams, while also providing thought-provoking questions for the future. I came back to my organisation re-energised, equipped with new tools and clarity, as well as a stronger sense of direction as a leader.

I cannot wait to return for the second residential and further deepen my knowledge of key business functions and effective leadership.

What advice would you give to someone considering applying for the Innholder Scholarships next year?

I would say be authentic and let your genuine passion for hospitality shine through. Take time to reflect on your past experiences in the industry, such as the moments that inspired you, challenged you, and helped you grow.  It’s also important to be able to demonstrate what impact you want to have on the industry, and your vision for achieving that.

What do you love most about working in the hospitality industry?

My love for hospitality has evolved over time. I was initially drawn to the lively, ever-changing environment and the exciting possibilities it offered. Over the years, that passion has grown into a genuine appreciation for the connections we build within the industry and the chance to create and nurture a positive working environment where colleagues feel valued and supported. Working in hospitality is simply fun. No two days are the same, and you never quite know what will happen next!