There was a unanimous view among the judges that this was a stand-out entry, with Barons considered to have an indisputably strong business, cultural and leadership ethos.
The company demonstrated a forensic approach to detail around training and competency, making it an attractive employer for new people coming into the business and contributing to phenomenal retention rates among existing staff.
Constant refining
Barons’ declared aim is to make people proud to work in pubs and its does this through transparent training pathways that are considered to be a primary staff benefit, not just something that comes with the job.
Despite having a mature people-centred ethos, the company refuses to tread water, constantly refining its approach to get the best out of its teams and deliver high-class experiences to its guests.
To this end, the past year has seen it add emotional intelligence and resilience elements to its training around workplace culture, improving team cohesion and equipping staff to cope more effectively with the daily pressures of working in busy pubs.
The new elements just add to a host of tools and benefits already at pub teams’ disposal, many of which Barons has led the industry in bringing on board.
Skills development
Barons was ahead of the game in appointing mental health and wellbeing champions at each site, supported by information and signposting to point team members towards confidential help where needed.
Barons’ approach to developing skills, building confidence and empowering pub managers to make their own choices leads to long service, strong retention rates and stable teams.
All GMs and head chefs have been home-grown, and several of the senior management team have risen through the ranks from floor or kitchen starter roles.
