The hospitality workforce has undergone significant structural changes over recent years, largely influenced by evolving labour-market expectations, sectoral competition, and the expanding recognition of hospitality graduates as valuable talent pools for multiple service industries. This study examines the phenomenon of career mobility among hospitality graduates, particularly their movement from core hotel operations into allied sectors such as aviation, luxury retail, cruise lines, event management, corporate guest relations, and technology-enabled service organisations. Through a mixed-method design involving a quantitative survey (N = 180) and qualitative interviews (n = 12), the research investigates the motivational drivers, perceived barriers, and broader industry implications of such mobility. Analyses using descriptive statistics, factor analysis, Pearson correlations, and multiple regression reveal that work–life balance (β = .41), salary expectations (β = .38), growth opportunities (β = .29), and professional dignity (β = .24) significantly influence mobility intentions. The final model accounts for 62% of the variance in mobility intention (R² = .62). Qualitative insights further contextualise these findings by highlighting dissatisfaction with traditional hotel structures, desire for stable shifts, and aspiration for greater professional respect. The study offers a multidimensional understanding of cross-sector career transitions and contributes actionable recommendations for educational institutions and hospitality employers