Tell us a little about how you got your start in Stonegate.
“I joined Stonegate with Proper Pubs back in 2017 as a part-time summer job whilst at university in Leeds. I continued working throughout my time at university, transferring to join the Social Pub and Kitchen division. Once I’d graduated and returned home to Sheffield, I completed the training to become a Team Leader on the Award* programme however, soon lockdown hit. I then completed Accolade during lockdown via Teams while we were all at home.
During lockdown, I was contacted by the Learning and Development team at Stonegate, who offered me the chance to take part in a new Accolade apprenticeship programme that was running for those who were furloughed during lockdown. I jumped at this opportunity and earned a Level 3 NVQ in hospitality. In March 2022, I joined the Slug & Lettuce division as a Deputy Manager in Sheffield.”
How did you find moving around Stonegate’s different pub and bar brands?
“I think making my start in Proper Pubs was great as it allowed me to learn the primary skills required when working in the hospitality industry, for example, how to pour a pint, greeting and interacting with guests etc.
So, when it came to joining the Slug & Lettuce team, I could focus more on learning about the brand, building a rapport with the team, and running our brand-focused offers, such as bottomless brunch, which is something I really enjoy.”
What is it about Slug & Lettuce that you enjoy?
“I enjoy the community we’ve created; it’s the same across all the different brands I’ve worked for. However, the brunches, interactions with guests, and brand events, such as themed brunches, are a lot of fun!”
Why did you decide that you wanted to progress within Stonegate?
“I really enjoyed my job. It may have started off as a part-time job to earn some money at university, but I’ve made so many friends from working with Stonegate. Even though I’ve changed sites a couple of times, I’ve stayed in contact with so many people and built some great relationships.
My General Manager at the time asked if becoming a Team Leader was something that I’d be interested in. They talked me through the programme and showed me how to apply. I thoroughly enjoyed meeting people from different parts of the business on the in-person workshops, especially those who, like me, were on the first step of their hospitality career. I don’t think you quite realise the size of Stonegate until you meet people at the workshops from different cities and different brands all over the UK.”
How did you find the jump up to Accelerator?
“I enjoyed the challenge. It was more theory-based, with a focus on management styles, communication skills, and leadership, whereas the Award and Accolade workshops were centred around teaching the core skills needed to run shifts and your own site. It was great to be able to discuss the challenges we face on a day-to-day basis and know that you’re not the only one who struggles or who has questions. Also, knowing that you have a supportive team behind you back at site makes a huge difference.”
How was your Accelerator graduation?
“It was such a fun day; I really enjoyed seeing everyone and celebrating together along with my Area Manager. I’ve also kept in contact with my graduating group via our group chat.”
What are your future plans?
“My aim is to be appointed as General Manager of my own site within the next six months. I’m waiting for a site to become available and may need to change brands, but I’m looking forward to a new challenge. I definitely want to stay with Stonegate, keep progressing, and see how far I can go.”
What has been your favourite memory since joining Stonegate?
“The first thing that comes to mind is my first ‘Mad Friday’ working in hospitality back when I was a part-time bartender. Mad Friday is notoriously busy, but I remember it being so much fun with everyone working together. I now volunteer to work this night every year.
Another great memory was attending a recent engagement event with people from all over the business. I found it inspiring listening to people from different departments speak about their successes. It was a great networking evening and confirmed that I’m on the right track in terms of my career within Stonegate.”
Do you have any advice for someone joining Stonegate?
“I would say put yourself out there and don’t be afraid to ask questions.
When I first started, I was incredibly shy. The person I was before I joined the hospitality industry compared to the person I am now couldn’t be more different. You’ll get to meet people from all over, different ages and backgrounds, which is great!”
