How Fiona Progressed to Brand Manager in Just Two Years

When it comes to rapid career progression in hospitality, there’s no better place to learn and grow than at Greene King. Fiona’s journey at Belhaven Brewery is an inspiring success story. With just two years of marketing experience, Fiona fearlessly embraced every challenge, from supporting the transformation of visitor experience to delivering award-winning projects. 

Progressing to a brand manager job at the iconic brewery, Fiona’s incredible career growth is paving the way for others to follow. Her story shows the exciting opportunities at Greene King and the innovation and empowerment our team members receive. 

If you’re looking for a hospitality career where you can make a real difference and grow both professionally and personally, Fiona’s journey is sure to inspire. We sat down with Fiona to get some more insight into her remarkable story. 

Why did you join Greene King?

For Fiona, the opportunity to work at Belhaven Brewery was too good to pass up. Of course, our reputation as an employer in the UK brewing and pub industry helped too! The opportunity was the ideal next step in her career. 

“I was doing a similar job in another drinks company, and when I saw the job advert for Belhaven Brewery I was interested in the chance to work at a local brewery.”

Summarise your career at Greene King and the different roles you have had?

“I joined the company as Marketing Executive for Belhaven Brewery in October 2020, which was the period between lockdowns 1 and 2. After two periods of furlough, I was back working full-time in May 2021. At this stage, I started the project of renovating/opening the Belhaven Visitor Experience, which opened in November 2021. As part of this project, I created the tour route, sourced all merchandise for the shop and advertised our brewery tour. I also helped with all of the day-to-day marketing tasks for our Belhaven Beers, as well as managing social media.

In December 2021, I was promoted to Brand Manager for Belhaven Brewery. Since then, I have travelled to New York twice to represent the brewery at New York Tartan Week (which we sponsor). Our visitor experience was awarded Brewery Attraction of the Year at the World Beer Awards. 

Throughout 2022, I kickstarted some NPD and rebrand projects (Twisted Thistle), managed several events including sponsoring Fringe by the Sea, Dunbar Music Festival and the renovation of the Belhaven Horsebox. I also worked in partnership with Loch Lomond Whiskies during The Open at St Andrews, promoting our beer/their whisky in Belhaven/Greene King and free trade pubs in the area. In May 2023, I delivered the rebrand project of Scotland's Number One Ale - Belhaven BEST. 

Currently, I'm excited to be working on the rebrand project of Scotland's Number One stout - Belhaven BLACK, and our sponsorship of the Edinburgh Fringe Mound Precinct area.”

How has your experience across a variety of Greene King brands supported your career progression?

At Greene King, we give our team members everything they need to grow and develop their careers. Fiona is an example of the quick progression and the internal mobility opportunities on offer. With award-winning brands up and down the country, we’re happy to help our team members to transfer across brands as they see fit. She detailed the support she’s received as well as the chances that have been presented to her.

“Having only had 2 years of marketing experience prior to joining Greene King, I have been extremely lucky to lead some very large projects so early on in my career. Although it's been extremely challenging and I've felt out of my depth at times, my manager has given me the confidence and guidance to step up in my career and take on these projects.”

How has Greene King supported you in your career progression?

Fiona credits our support and encouragement as part of her rapid career progression. We’re committed to untapping potential, and we focus on empowering our tea to thrive and take on new challenges. 

“Greene King has recognised my efforts and contributions, by promoting me to Brand Manager.”

What is your favourite thing about working in hospitality?

“I enjoy going into outlets and seeing the branding/merchandise that I've helped to create, being enjoyed in pubs etc.”

What would you say to someone considering a career at Greene King?

The career growth and supportive environment are just some of the many benefits of working at Greene King. Whether starting a hospitality career or taking the next step in the industry, Fiona had some simple advice for anyone looking to follow in her path. 

“Go for it!”

Discover hospitality brand marketing jobs at Greene King

Whether you’re an experienced professional or just starting out, we’re proud to offer incredible opportunities in an environment where you’re valued. If Fiona’s story has inspired you to explore wider Greene King jobs, our brewing and brand jobs are a great place to start. 

Ready to follow in Fiona’s footsteps? View our openings in brand marketing jobs today.