For a new Crowne Plaza hotel, who must attend the Leading the Brand Training, and when is it held?

According to the 2025 Crowne Plaza FDD, the General Manager and designated Hotel Experience Champions are required to attend the Leading the Brand Training for new hotels. This training must be completed prior to the hotel opening. The cost of this training is included in the annual subscription for IHG University.

In addition to the Leading the Brand Training, the General Manager and the entire hotel staff must attend Key Programs Pre-Opening training at the property. A Holiday employee will visit the hotel to assist in becoming a Crowne Plaza brand hotel. The Holiday employee may train all Hotel management/ supervisory staff to deliver information to line-level employees. Training topics include the Standards, guest service skills, marketing and loyalty programs, service planning, quality measurement and life safety and security.

Furthermore, all Crowne Plaza General Managers, Department Heads, and employees must complete the Brand Service Training Program within the first 30 days of employment. The Hotel Experience Champion or designated Training Manager is responsible for ensuring that new employees complete the Brand Experience Training within their first 30 days of employment. These various training programs ensure that the staff is well-prepared to deliver the brand experience expected at Crowne Plaza hotels.