Podium finish for ICMS Students in global Accor Take Off Challenge

A trio of ICMS students – Jack Parsons, Max Coram, and Bradyn Nicol – achieved third place out of 61 teams from around the world in the prestigious Accor Take Off Challenge that took place in May this year.

Students were asked to “Imagine the future of Social Connection for the ibis Family by developing a Sustainability campaign aimed at engaging a new generation of guests”. The task was inspired by the 50th anniversary of ibis, the Accor Group’s economy brand.

The ICMS team navigated through three challenging rounds of presentations to senior Accor executives, where they presented their fresh ideas and creativity.

They were the only ones from the Pacific region to make it to the final round, demonstrating outstanding performance and standing out from the rest.

ICMS congratulates the winning students for their dedication and hard work that brought about this achievement.

“Congratulations to our talented students! Their commitment has paid off, and we look forward to their future endeavors,” ICMS Professional Placement Consultant Marianne Saulwick said.

Appreciation was also extended to ICMS Hospitality Lecturer Alli Abdurahman for his guidance in the process.

Reflections on the process

“The Accor Challenge was a valuable journey,” Jack, an ICMS Bachelor of Hospitality Management student, said.

“It offered us significant learning opportunities, webinars, and helped enhance our presentation skills.”

Max is studying a Bachelor of Business (Marketing) and Bradyn is studying a Bachelor of Business (Entrepreneurship). The diverse skill sets within the team contributed to their high placement in the challenge.

“Throughout the competition, we not only grew as a team but also as individuals. We gained profound insights into the hospitality industry, its current trends, and future prospects,” Jack said.

“The connections established during the challenge are invaluable and pave the way for promising opportunities in the industry.”

Why does ICMS send students to competitions?

Sending a team to the Accor Take Off Challenge not only showcases ICMS’s commitment to academic excellence but also serves as a valuable opportunity for students to expand their professional network and enhance their career prospects in the dynamic hospitality industry.

By participating in such prestigious competitions, students gain exposure to industry leaders, build meaningful connections, and acquire real-world experience that can significantly boost their chances of securing a rewarding career in hospitality.

These networking opportunities not only open doors to potential job placements but also pave the way for continuous learning and growth within the industry, guiding a path towards a successful and fulfilling career journey for the students.

Source: Accor Group News