We chatted to Alex, a Deployment Manager at Levy Restaurants, to get insight into his experience at Compass Group UK & Ireland and gain his top advice for graduates looking to join the company.
Tell us a little bit about yourself and your background?
I’ve actually been at Compass for a long time now - starting out as a barman at one of our sport and leisure venues. After graduating with a degree in Film, I secured a place on the 2-year graduate programme, which I have now completed and moved into a new role as a Deployment Manager.
This wasn’t my intended career path, it was one that found me and it’s been such a learning curve, going from spending four hours a week at the stadium to working full-time and managing teams.
What stood out to you about Compass Group UK & Ireland when applying for opportunities?
When searching for graduate schemes, I was interested in the rotational aspect of the opportunity. I knew this would mean I could experience working in different teams, functions and sectors, doing anything from managing the staff at a stadium to supporting the running of warehouse services in our B&I sector. This was perfect for me as I wasn’t completely sure what I wanted to do and having the ability to try out a range of roles seemed like a great option.
I’ve enjoyed a breadth of opportunities and through this have been able to establish a well-rounded skillset to support my career.
How did you find the application process for Compass Group UK & Ireland?
From what I remember, the application process began with an online process that involved submitting a CV and cover letter. Following this, I completed a test and a phone interview with the graduate scheme coordinator.
My success in these stages secured me a place on the assessment centre which involved a solo activity, an interview and a group activity all aimed at assessing skills, personality and experience.
Throughout the process, the graduate recruiter kept me updated on what to expect from the next steps of the process and shared advice on how to prepare. This gave me an early insight into the firm’s supportive culture.
What is a ‘normal day’ like in your role?
Since starting my role as a Deployment Manager for Workforce Management solutions in the sports & leisure, my main purpose is to implement solutions that help to manage employee shifts. The last few months, I’ve focused on applying these new processes and have been travelling around the country to train people up on the system.
How would you describe the culture at Compass Group UK & Ireland?
What I’ve found unique about Compass is that, within the different areas of the company, there are different subcultures.
Of course, there’s an overarching culture here, underpinned by the key pillars of great people, great service and great results. And with this also comes a very people-focused approach, where everyone is made to feel supported and valued.
What piece of advice would you give to someone who is thinking of applying to Compass Group UK & Ireland?
Compass wants to take on people from different backgrounds, so it doesn’t matter what yours is, as long as you’re enthusiastic and willing to learn. If you can show you’re responsible, eager and not afraid to get stuck into new things, this could definitely be the place for you.
My advice for the application process is to make sure you’ve done your research into the company and figure out why you want to join. Use this research to shape your answers as it shows that you’re really interested in the role and that you’ve really invested in doing well.
After securing a role, remember you were successful for a reason. Trust in your unique ideas and use this to bring a new perspective to projects, the team and the wider organisation.
Looking to learn more about life as a graduate with Compass Group? Search #compassgrads on LinkedIn.