Key points
- Drawing on his own career journey from waiter to CEO of a 630-hotel group, Rajakarier underlined the need for empathy, respect, and humility in leadership development.
- The launch of this Swiss-backed program reflects Thailand’s growing ambition to lead in hospitality education while catering to the demands of both local and international markets.
- For those seeking a career shift or advancement in hospitality management, this diploma offers a gateway to global leadership roles.
Bangkok Hotel Schools: A new milestone in Bangkok’s hospitality education
The Asian Institute of Hospitality & Management (AIHM), backed by Minor Hotels, has launched a Postgraduate Diploma in International Hospitality Management in collaboration with Switzerland’s prestigious Les Roches. Designed to elevate professional skills, the program introduces flexible pathways for those already in the industry. This Bangkok Hotel Schools report highlights how the initiative marks a bold step toward raising Thailand’s standing in global hospitality leadership.
AIHM unveils a Swiss-backed postgraduate diploma designed to fast-track hospitality professionals into global leadership roles.
Image Credit: AIHM
Flexible options for working professionals
The one-year diploma allows participants to select from three study formats: full-time on campus, weekend part-time, or fully online. Tuition is set at 380,000 baht, payable in four installments, making it accessible for aspiring managers and senior supervisors. The course covers six core areas, including entrepreneurship, finance, revenue management, event management, leadership, and digital-era marketing. A two-week Hospitality Immersion Programme ensures those from non-hospitality backgrounds gain essential skills in F&B, housekeeping, kitchen operations, and front-office procedures.
Fast track to a Swiss master’s degree
A standout feature is the fast-track pathway to Les Roches’ Master of Advanced Studies, available at its campuses in Switzerland or Spain. Graduates can complete the master’s in as little as six months, compared to the typical 12–18 month route. Specialized tracks include luxury management, cruise line management, F&B entrepreneurship, and golf management, expanding opportunities for graduates seeking niche expertise in global hospitality.
Backing from industry leaders
At the launch event, Minor Hotels CEO Dillip Rajakarier emphasized the importance of developing leaders for Thailand’s hospitality industry. He noted that while the country excels in service culture, leadership training often lags behind. Drawing on his own career journey from waiter to CEO of a 630-hotel group, Rajakarier underlined the need for empathy, respect, and humility in leadership development. AIHM’s COO, Chris Meylan, echoed this vision, stressing accessibility and the school’s mission to be the preferred choice for hospitality education in Asia.
Government support and global networks
The program has received backing from Thailand’s Ministry of Higher Education and the Tourism Authority of Thailand, highlighting national recognition of the school’s role in advancing professional standards. AIHM also awarded an executive education scholarship valued at 250,000 baht to the Ministry, reinforcing its commitment to national talent development. Being part of Minor International, the world’s tenth-largest hotel group, ensures graduates enjoy career opportunities across 560-plus hotels under brands like Anantara, Avani, and NH Hotels.
Enrolment and international reach
Currently hosting 220 students from more than 20 nationalities, AIHM fosters a diverse environment built on its “Aim Higher” motto. Entry requirements for the postgraduate diploma include a bachelor’s degree with two years of work experience, or five years of relevant professional experience for non-graduates, alongside IELTS 6.0 proficiency. With rolling intakes in October, February, June, and September, the program is designed for maximum accessibility to a global student base.
A step forward for Thailand’s hospitality leadership
The launch of this Swiss-backed program reflects Thailand’s growing ambition to lead in hospitality education while catering to the demands of both local and international markets. It sets a new benchmark for professional development in Southeast Asia by combining academic rigor, real-world training, and industry partnerships. For those seeking a career shift or advancement in hospitality management, this diploma offers a gateway to global leadership roles. By merging Thai service culture with Swiss academic excellence, AIHM’s initiative is expected to produce the next generation of leaders who can shape the industry both at home and abroad.
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