At M&B many of our General Managers, Corporate team and even some of our Directors, started their careers from the ground up.  Knowledge of the ins and outs of how a pub works is key to progress in our fast-paced industry, so a thirst for knowledge and the drive to be able to work in every area of a one of our fantastic pubs is essential to building skills for a solid career foundation.

Ben joined the Sharman’s Cross pub as a Front of House Team Member after leaving school.  Since then, he has developed his skills and career by cross training into a Chef position, alongside his Team Member role.

What first attracted you to apply for a job at M&B?

It is my local pub and when I heard that they needed someone to be a food runner, I applied.  It’s so convenient that it's literally a 5 minute walk to work!

Why did you decide that you wanted to work in both the kitchen and front of house?

I enjoy cooking food at home so decided that I wanted to be a chef, but I also wanted to learn how to work on the bar pouring drinks and serving customers, so I get the best of both worlds doing a dual role.

What new skills do you feel you have developed since working in the kitchen as a chef?

I’ve learnt how to cook different foods at the same time in large quantities.  There is always a lot going on in the kitchen, so timing is really important to make sure it all ends up on the plates at the same time. I’ve learnt how to properly cook and prepare food so that it is safe as well as looking and tasting great.