General Manager Review
at Compass group
Higher Level Apprenticeship
Catering
Birmingham
Review Submitted: March 2025
Overall Rating
4.8 /5
The Overall Rating is the average of all the ratings given in each category. We take those individual ratings and combine them into one final score!
5/5
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Overview of Role
5/5
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Skills Development
4.4/5
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Structure and Support
Overview of Role
Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
5/5
I have a dynamic and challenging role, balancing match day operations with non-match day events while maintaining excellence in hospitality and retail. Through strategic leadership and planning, I lead a dedicated team of professional, building a culture of continuous improvement. Elevating our team from a good organizations to exceptional one.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
The chance to lead a team, aim for operational excellence, and work in such a prestigious Premier League environment is so rewarding—especially when I see the collective efforts of the team pay off in happy customers and successful events.
I am finding great value in my apprenticeship as it is a foundation for growth, for myself and my team, helping to build the skills and confidence we need for the future.
I am finding great value in my apprenticeship as it is a foundation for growth, for myself and my team, helping to build the skills and confidence we need for the future.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
Reflecting on my apprenticeship, I have gained substantial experience and honed valuable skills as follows;
Team Leadership Development: Managing a team of professionals in a high-pressure sports stadia environment is no small feat. I've developed strong leadership skills, learning how to inspire, guide, and get the best out of your team.
Operational Excellence: Balancing match-day and non-match-day operations while delivering a best in class experience. I've mastered operational planning and execution at an elite level.
Customer Experience Mastery: Providing exceptional hospitality and retail services. I've sharpened my ability to understand and exceed customer expectations.
Strategic Thinking: Embedding continuous improvement principles across the team showcases my ability to think strategically and focus on long-term success.
Flexibility; Problem-Solving: Adapting to the fast-paced and dynamic nature of sports events has strengthened my ability to handle unexpected challenges with poise and ingenuity.
Innovation; Growth Mindset: The focus on excellence and improvement indicates a commitment to innovation and an openness to learning.
Team Leadership Development: Managing a team of professionals in a high-pressure sports stadia environment is no small feat. I've developed strong leadership skills, learning how to inspire, guide, and get the best out of your team.
Operational Excellence: Balancing match-day and non-match-day operations while delivering a best in class experience. I've mastered operational planning and execution at an elite level.
Customer Experience Mastery: Providing exceptional hospitality and retail services. I've sharpened my ability to understand and exceed customer expectations.
Strategic Thinking: Embedding continuous improvement principles across the team showcases my ability to think strategically and focus on long-term success.
Flexibility; Problem-Solving: Adapting to the fast-paced and dynamic nature of sports events has strengthened my ability to handle unexpected challenges with poise and ingenuity.
Innovation; Growth Mindset: The focus on excellence and improvement indicates a commitment to innovation and an openness to learning.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
5/5
A well-structured apprenticeship with a balance of off-the-job learning and in-venue training modules gives you the best of both worlds—practical, hands-on experience and the theoretical knowledge to back it up. It is rewarding to see how the skills and concepts I've learning off the job translate into real-world applications at the venue.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
4/5
I believe my employer is truly invested in my growth and success, which makes a world of difference in such a demanding role. Having their support, especially when the day-to-day can be so challenging is a massive help and allows me to stay focused and motivated. The fact that they prioritise giving me time for your tasks and assignments shows that they value my development just as much as the immediate results of my work.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
5/5
I have a fantastic team of trainer I can reach out to. Knowing that I can turn to [This section of the comment has been removed by a member of the Higherin Team because it did not meet our site terms and conditions] at Insteps, as well as peers within the wider team for help and support adds an extra layer of reassurance, there’s a strong network in place to guide me when things get tough or when I need additional insights.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
4/5
The combination of employer support, structured learning, and accessible guidance from Instep providers equips me with the tools to excel in my role in several ways:
Enhanced Skill Development: The structured training modules provide me with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, which you can immediately apply in my day-to-day tasks, enhancing my performance.
Increased Confidence: Knowing I have the backing of both your employer and your Instep providers gives me the confidence to take on challenges and make decisions effectively.
Efficient Time Management: The support I receive allows me to balance work responsibilities with completing assignments, teaching me to prioritize and manage my time better.
Problem-Solving Expertise: Having access to guidance whenever needed helps me tackle complex issues more efficiently, sharpening my problem-solving skills.
Continuous Improvement: The structure of my apprenticeship aligns with the principle of ongoing learning, ensuring I grow and adapt, which positively impacts my role's demands.
I'm seeing these benefits unfold in my daily work.
Enhanced Skill Development: The structured training modules provide me with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, which you can immediately apply in my day-to-day tasks, enhancing my performance.
Increased Confidence: Knowing I have the backing of both your employer and your Instep providers gives me the confidence to take on challenges and make decisions effectively.
Efficient Time Management: The support I receive allows me to balance work responsibilities with completing assignments, teaching me to prioritize and manage my time better.
Problem-Solving Expertise: Having access to guidance whenever needed helps me tackle complex issues more efficiently, sharpening my problem-solving skills.
Continuous Improvement: The structure of my apprenticeship aligns with the principle of ongoing learning, ensuring I grow and adapt, which positively impacts my role's demands.
I'm seeing these benefits unfold in my daily work.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
4/5
I support the Abilities Network within Compass UK & Ireland. Abilities reflects the commitment of our business to be inclusive and creating opportunities for everyone to thrive in the workplace. My involvement enhances my wellbeing and improves my overall leadership skills, building empathy, fostering collaboration, and understanding diverse perspectives.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Compass group to a friend?
Yes
Why?
Compass UK & Ireland has made a meaningful impact on my professional journey and personal development. Their supportive environment, focus on growth, and strong company culture really shows the kind of positive experience they provide. I am confident that anyone considering joining the team, would receive the same experience.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Compass group?
Tips I would recommend to anyone considering joining Compass UK & Ireland:
Be Open to Learning: the structured training and support offered by the company. Embrace these opportunities to grow both personally and professionally.
Engage with the Culture: the company's culture promotes inclusivity, teamwork, and continuous improvement. Actively participate in initiatives like the Abilities Network or other programs.
Build Relationships: collaboration and networking within the company. Building strong connections with colleagues and mentors can greatly enhance your experience.
Communicate Needs: Compass UK & Ireland offers a supportive environment, where you shouldn’t hesitate to reach out for guidance or help—be it from your direct line managers, training providers, or teammates.
Balance Challenges with Growth: the role can be demanding but the rewarding nature of overcoming challenges is well worth it. Support is always available to help manage both daily responsibilities and learning requirements.
Take Initiative: Always show enthusiasm, bring ideas to the table, and take ownership of personal and professional development.
It's a great company to work for!
Be Open to Learning: the structured training and support offered by the company. Embrace these opportunities to grow both personally and professionally.
Engage with the Culture: the company's culture promotes inclusivity, teamwork, and continuous improvement. Actively participate in initiatives like the Abilities Network or other programs.
Build Relationships: collaboration and networking within the company. Building strong connections with colleagues and mentors can greatly enhance your experience.
Communicate Needs: Compass UK & Ireland offers a supportive environment, where you shouldn’t hesitate to reach out for guidance or help—be it from your direct line managers, training providers, or teammates.
Balance Challenges with Growth: the role can be demanding but the rewarding nature of overcoming challenges is well worth it. Support is always available to help manage both daily responsibilities and learning requirements.
Take Initiative: Always show enthusiasm, bring ideas to the table, and take ownership of personal and professional development.
It's a great company to work for!
