William Bassett started as a team member five years ago at Robinsons’ Royal Ship pub in Dolgellau, Wales, and has now been appointed GM at the Wynnstay Arms in Ruabon, Wrexham County Borough, after gaining experience through the Aspire programme.
Having completed Level 3 Hospitality supervision, Bassett continued his journey with Aspire, qualifying for Level 4 Hospitality Management.
Deservedly promoted
Robinsons Brewery people development and compliance manager Susan Forbes said: “Will returned after furlough and showed great determination and loyalty.
“He was well deservedly promoted to an assistant manager and has since worked in other pubs in the business to gain more experience and as part of his development.
“On Monday 7 February he began his role as general manager at the Wynnstay. We wish him the best of luck and know just how great he will be.”
The Aspire programme, which was launched in 2019, was put on hold through Covid, but Robinsons is set to launch its next cohort in March 2022 and is looking to broaden the apprenticeships available to its managed pub teams.
Rewarding career
With it currently being a brutal time for the hospitality industry with staff shortages and venues forced to slash hours or even close since Covid, Robinsons’ is delighted to be opening new doors for its team to help set future careers.
Bassett said: “After 5 years with Robinsons I am really excited to be looking after such a beautiful pub as the Wynnstay Arms.
“The brewery has really supported me through my journey and every step of the way, they have delivered their promises to support my ambitions.
“As the next Aspire cohort launches, I am hoping to use this experience to show how rewarding a career in hospitality can be and how if you stick with Robinsons, they will stick with you. I’m just really excited to get stuck in.”