Hi, I’m Phil. I started working for Wetherspoon in 2009 at The Bishop Vesey (Sutton Coldfield). I started on the bar – and it was there that my awesome journey in the pub industry began. It is a very busy pub, where I learned the skills which would enable me to become promoted to team leader.

In those days, to be a team leader, you had to pass a test based on your knowledge. I had a lot of help and support and, admittedly, didn’t pass first time. I did pass on my second attempt – then moved to open a new pub called The Mare Pool (Mere Green). It was very exciting to be able to help with the recruitment of a brand-new team and see people develop over the couple of years I was there.

In 2013, I left Wetherspoon… then rejoined again in 2021. It was then that the most exciting part of my journey began. Initially, I was looking for part-time work to supplement my income. A previous shift manager of mine, then running The Elizabeth of York (Moseley), said that she could offer me a part-time job – which was perfect.

Life has a funny way of changing on us – and I was given the opportunity to develop very quickly, from bar associate to shift manager in only six months (of incredibly hard work!). The amount of dedication, love and support which I received during my time at this pub was exceptional. Sure, I made plenty of mistakes along the way, yet was guided through it all.

I was diagnosed with dyslexia in 2010 and found, and still do find, certain tasks challenging – mostly those involving large volumes of texts or having to read quickly. The patience and continual support from management teams and associates during my training were heart-warming.

Each day in the life of a Wetherspoon employee is never the same as the next. I particularly enjoy, and find very interesting, speaking to an array of people from all backgrounds. It’s motivating and fun to use your own initiative to make your own decisions. Bonuses, discounts and free shares are lovely incentives, however my favourite reason for working at Wetherspoon is the fact that it offers apprenticeships at all levels.

I decided to do the level 5 operational/departmental manager apprenticeship and plan to progress to the level 6 chartered manager degree programme.

The reason I’m doing the apprenticeship is to better my knowledge and skills and to help to achieve my aspirations to work in head office in the people team, with particular emphasis on diversity and inclusion, with a specialism in LGBTQIA+ inclusion.

Outside of work, I take part and help out in Birmingham’s pride events. I’m part of a charity called PWM which helps disadvantaged gay people to get back on their feet and offer a friendly face to talk to. Other hobbies include taking my English bulldog to Wales on holiday and treating him to way too many snacks! I also enjoy singing and dancing, but I don’t really think my dancing is up to much (LOL).

I love what Wetherspoon has to offer and am looking forward to many more years working with such wonderful people in such a brilliant company.