Penny's rise through the ranks: Waiting staff to head office

Looking for a hospitality career where you can rise through the ranks and pour happiness into people’s lives? Penny’s journey is an inspiring example of where a career at Greene King can take you. From starting out as waiting staff to the role of pub assistant manager, and all the way to head office, her story shows what can be achieved with the perfect blend of ambition and hard work. 

At Greene King, we’ve been creating experiences for our guests for over 200 years. Penny’s story shows that life here is about more than just serving food and drinks. It’s all about growing both personally and professionally. Whether you’re starting out or climbing the ladder, her story dishes up plenty of inspiration. 

If you’ve ever wondered where a job in hospitality could take you, following in Penny’s footsteps will give you the answer. Here’s how she went from part-time waiting staff to pub assistant manager, and why Greene King could be the perfect place for you to do the same.

Penny's career path: From waiting staff to head office

Why did you join Greene King?

It was my first part-time job; the restaurant had a good reputation, and it was close to my then-family home.

Climbing the career ladder

Penny didn’t just settle for one role—she seized every opportunity that came her way. Here’s a quick look at her career progression:

• Runner at Loch Fyne in Beaconsfield
• Waiter at Loch Fyne in Beaconsfield
• Supervisor at Loch Fyne in Beaconsfield
• Assistant Manager at Loch Fyne in Beaconsfield
• Marketing Assistant for Loch Fyne Restaurants
• Brand Manager for Loch Fyne Restaurants
• Head of Marketing for Metropolitan Pub Company and Loch Fyne Restaurants
• Head of Commercial for Metropolitan Pub Company and Loch Fyne Restaurants
• Franchise Operations Director for Pub Partners

How has your experience across Greene King brands supported your growth?

The majority of my career has been at Greene King, not because of a lack of ambition—far from it—but because of the sheer scale of the business and the development opportunities here. I have worked across various divisions in different roles, which has enabled me to grow, learn, and broaden my skillset. It has also provided me with exposure to a wide network of functions and people across the organisation and industry.

How has Greene King supported your career progression?

I feel cared for and invested in by Greene King. Throughout my career, I have been provided development, advice, feedback, and support by peers, managers, leadership team members, and the exec board. The business has had faith in me at every step of my journey.

What’s your favourite thing about working in hospitality?

No two days are ever the same! It’s all about the people and being in a customer-centric business that continuously evolves.

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

If you are passionate about hospitality and want to be surrounded by like-minded, talented people, then Greene King is the place to be—a business that genuinely cares about its people, their development, and progression.

Why choose Greene King for assistant manager jobs in hospitality?

Exceptional training and development

We’re committed to training, giving you all the knowledge, skills, and confidence you need to hit the heights. From leadership workshops to hands-on experience, you can take your career wherever you want it to go.

Career advancement opportunities

Penny’s journey goes to show that you can carve out your own path here. We love promoting from within, and always make sure you get what you deserve. If you’re looking for a job where hard work is recognised and rewarded, this is the place for you.

A supportive and inclusive work environment

With a diverse and inclusive team culture and an environment that encourages growth, our workplace is one that’s full of rewards. Whether you’re just starting out or looking for your next challenge, you’ll be shoulder-to-shoulder with supportive colleagues who win, learn and grow together.

Your hospitality career starts here

Penny’s journey at Greene King shows just how rewarding a career in hospitality can be. From her first role to climbing the ranks, her story is proof that passion, dedication, and the right support can take you far.

If you’re ready to start your own journey in hospitality, Greene King is the perfect place to do it. With incredible training, career growth opportunities, and a company culture that genuinely values its people, there’s no better time to take the first step.

Explore our waiting staff, assistant manager and head office jobs and see where a career with Greene King could take you.