Pros
* The Operations Graduate Scheme was a fantastic experience which really set me up to integrate into a managerial position a year later. * All 3 managers I reported to (Operations Manager) during my time as AOM at Blackburn were extremely supportive and allowed me to have the freedom to implement ideas at site. * Staff discounts/ share scheme/ bonuses (although that is luck of the draw) *Team were fantastic, supportive and generally wanted to work. *Previous CGM' and then Area managers were fantastic. The former CGM for Airports Manchester and for Lancashire were some of the best I've worked with. When they made the transition to Area manager, they definitely let go of some fantastic people which was a shame.
Cons
* New opening was a stressful experience whose team prioritized deadlines over common sense. There was lack of support at times from their end and we actually ended up opening the hotel earlier when there were clear issues in ensuring we were financially compliant. * Lack of support at times- as an AOM you had to cover a lot of loose ends and i spent most of the time covering kitchen shifts alongside leadership duties so work life balance was not amazing. * Lack of external support to myself and team who experienced an adverse situation. Its all well and good saying we have a support system but the Area Manager handled that situation shockingly and it scars me to this day that I wish i did more to support the team.