Which of the six managers is most qualified to head the new division? Why? Which training should they attend to complete their skillset?

Manager A

Now age 28, joined the organization at 18 years of age.

Has worked for Brunt Hotels for 10 years.

Five of these years were in a management position.

Has never travelled abroad for business or holidays/vacations.

Is concerned about not knowing very much about French culture and the way hotels are managed in France.

Manager B

Age 55.

Has worked for Brunt Hotels for 22 years.

Joined the organization as a hotel cleaner and worked through the ranks to management.

Regularly visits Asia for extended vacations but has never travelled in Europe.

Is concerned that he or she is used to having a close support network in the UK and that this might not be possible due to the various locations of the French hotels. Manager C

Age 49.

Has worked for Brunt Hotels for nine years.

Joined the organization in a management role.

Previously worked for a small, family-run hotel.

Has visited France four times on family holidays.

Is concerned that he or she has little HR knowledge and is worried about the implications when getting the new hotel ready.

Manager D

Age 38.

Joined Brunt Hotels six months ago.

Is concerned that he or she has not had much management experience in this organization, but has previous management experience in another large hotel group.

Is very interested in learning about new cultures. Has six years' previous experience of working in a restaurant. Is concerned that his or her family may fi nd it diffi cult to settle in France.

Manager E

Age 21.

Joined Brunt Hotels two years ago.

Graduated from University three years ago.

Completed a one-year placement in a French hotel as part of university degree.

Understands some basic French and is keen to master the language.

Is concerned about how his or her staff will react to having a young English manager.

Manager F

Age 41.

Joined Brunt Hotels 14 years ago.

Became a manager for Brunt Hotels one year ago.

Has six years' previous experience of working in a tourist information center.

Is concerned about his or her communication skills and lack of IT skills.