Higher education is a relatively new topic emerging in tourism research which leads to disparities over the need of education and training and adds to overall perceptions of work within the sector from different groups such as the government. The COVID-19 pandemic changed and affected most industries around the world, especially affected was the hospitality industry due to its need of social encounters and personal interactions. Through the changes of the COVID-19 pandemic, the existing demand towards employees increased. Thus, this thesis explores preconceptions within the Swedish tourism and hospitality industry as perceived by employers within the sector. Twelve semi-structured interviews with employers working within the Swedish tourism and hospitality industry were analysed with the help of a thematic analysis. The findings show that the industry has a reputation within society to be temporary employment. Furthermore, expectations of employers towards employees are identified and how these have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic is discussed. This thesis additionally investigates the effects the industry has felt through the pandemic, as perceived by employers.