I started my career at Wetherspoon over 18 years ago, working as a cleaner. I showed an interest in working behind the bar and was soon offered a bar associate job. 

A full-time bar position turned into a supervisory role. Then, when I began to train new managers, it was noticed that I was ready to manage a pub of my own. 

I have now been managing various Wetherspoon pubs for 15 years.

As well as managing the operation of the pub and team, an important part of my job is to build relationships with the community, from talking and getting to know customers to keeping in regular contact with local businesses. Building sales isn’t about just serving great beer and food: there are many different aspects to the role.

In 2007, I was awarded ‘pub manager of the year’ – something of which I am very proud. 

The quality of training has literally allowed me to swap a mop and bucket for a fully fledged career in pub management, with one of the most successful pub companies in the UK.