Graduate scheme tips: Chris’ journey from Team Member to future General Manager

With so many graduate schemes out there, how do you even begin to choose? If you’ve landed here, something tells us you’ve got your eye on a hospitality graduate scheme (just a hunch!).

To give you a real-life look behind the scenes, we caught up with Chris Scott, who completed the M&B retail graduate scheme. He started out as a Team Member and worked his way up to Assistant Manager, a role that set him up perfectly for his next big career goal: becoming a General Manager.

So if you’re on the hunt for graduate scheme tips and want to hear how the journey really feels, keep reading, Chris has plenty to share.

When did you join Mitchells & Butlers?

“I joined in 2011 while studying at university and started out as a front-of-house server. Over time, I also dipped into the kitchen as a Kitchen Assistant in the quieter periods.”

How did your career journey take shape?

Chris’ story is proof that careers don’t always follow a straight line. After uni, he realised he wanted to stick with hospitality and applied for the M&B retail graduate scheme.

“My General Manager was super supportive, and we talked through the options for me to grow. I became a Team Leader while applying for the scheme. 

Later, when my GM moved into a corporate role, I had the chance to step up as Acting General Manager at Toby Carvery. It was my first time running a restaurant, definitely a challenge, but an amazing experience!”

Fast forward, Chris has completed the grad scheme and is gearing up for his first appointment as a fully-fledged General Manager.

Graduate scheme tip: Don’t underestimate the value of saying yes to new opportunities, even the unexpected ones can open big doors.

So, what’s it like being an Assistant Manager?

“There are so many great things, but what I love most is that I’m still learning every day. I get to work alongside my General Manager and Kitchen Manager, building my skills and confidence. 

And the people I meet are incredible, one day I’m pouring a pint for a local, the next I’m chatting whisky with a visitor from Asia. Plus, working on the banks of Loch Lomond? Can’t complain about that view!”

Graduate scheme tip: Be curious and soak up every bit of knowledge from the people around you, mentors and managers can become your biggest support network.

How did it feel to make the jump to Assistant Manager?

“Moving from Team Member to Assistant Manager was definitely a leap. But with the right training, support, and a strong team, it was the best move I could have made.”

Graduate scheme tip: Back yourself. The step up can feel scary, but you’ll learn faster than you think.

What’s your favourite part of the role?

“Working at The Balloch House. It’s such a beautiful pub in a stunning location. I love being able to deliver amazing service while coaching new starters, watching them grow into confident team members is hugely rewarding.”

What inspires you to become a General Manager?

“Becoming a General Manager feels like the natural next step. I want to use everything I’ve learned to help my own team thrive and feel as proud of their careers as I do.”

Graduate scheme tip: Always think ahead. Every role is a stepping stone to the next, so take pride in what you’re learning now; it’ll pay off later.

What advice would you give to someone considering a graduate scheme at M&B?

“Go for it! The training at M&B gives you all the tools you need to grow. By trying out different brands, you get to experience a wide variety of pubs and restaurants. If you put in the effort, you’ll see the reward.”

Graduate scheme tip: Don’t be afraid to get stuck in, the more you experience, the more doors will open.

Ready to kickstart your career with a graduate scheme?

Inspired by Chris’ story? If you’re looking for an exciting career in hospitality and want to join a company that’s all about progression, then our M&B Graduate Scheme could be the perfect fit for you.