People come to the pub trade in different ways - as a part-time worker, from another industry, or from a family background in pubs. Here are three pub managers, all with Spirit Group, who have found a career running their own house
Gary Spratt, the Rodmill, Eastbourne, West Sussex
After Gary Spratt was made redundant from his job as a building society manager he put his 17 years of customer service skills to good use by carving a new career with the Spirit Group. He is now manager of the Rodmill in Eastbourne, East Sussex.
Aside from a willingness to learn and adapt, Gary has benefited from the company's in-house training. Indeed, on its Heroes programme for would-be pub managers he was crowned a 'Super Hero' and named 'Heroes' Hero of the Year' from among the 250 people who went through the course.
"The course allows you to share best practice and ideas and build a network of friends and
contacts," says Gary. "It was an opportunity to practise in a safe environment and I found it invaluable. It gave me a greater focus on service standards."
Martyn Symmons, the Hill, Birmingham
It's not surprising that Martin Symmons found his vocation in managed houses. His grandparents used to run a pub in Bath, his mother grew up in a pub and he readily admits he feels at home in the licensed trade.
Martin, who manages the Hill in Birmingham city centre, may only be 25 but he already has eight years' experience working in pubs. He enjoys putting what he has learned on Spirit courses into practice and putting his individual stamp on the pub.
Martin does not doubt he has made the right career choice. "If you stick with it and work hard, life is good," he says.
Sarah Hardwick, the Malt House, Birmingham
Sarah Hardwick helped fund her time at university through working in a pub and on graduation chose to make a career in the industry.
As well as the opportunities for career advancement, the sports science graduate was attracted by the flexible hours and the social life.
She is now manager of the Malt House in Birmingham and training towards becoming an area manager.
Sarah has found the in-house training has given her the skills and confidence to progress.
"It's a rewarding and enjoyable career for people who are prepared to work hard and have the motivation," says Sarah.