Peter S. Weaver

Following a successful career in business management, I chose to pursue a role within HM Prison Service where I could apply my leadership, communication and decision-making skills in a challenging and rewarding environment. Working in a high-security setting, I am responsible for maintaining the safety, security and welfare of prisoners, while building professional relationships that encourage positive behaviour and rehabilitation.

My role requires me to remain calm under pressure, manage conflict effectively and make sound decisions in fast-paced and often unpredictable situations. I work closely with colleagues and external agencies to ensure prison routines are maintained, security procedures are followed and incidents are managed professionally. Alongside maintaining order and ensuring compliance with prison regulations, I contribute to the ongoing rehabilitation and support of those in custody.

The role has strengthened my resilience, interpersonal skills and ability to manage challenging situations while maintaining professionalism, fairness and respect. It has further developed my ability to communicate with people from diverse backgrounds, de-escalate conflict and work effectively as part of a disciplined, high-performing team.

Co-founded and successfully developed a logistics business from start-up, despite having no previous experience in the industry. Built strong relationships with clients, secured subcontracting agreements and private contracts, and helped establish the company as a successful operation.

As a co director with my prior management experience, I took responsibility for the day-to-day running of the business, overseeing key operational and administrative functions including compliance, HR, finance, client management, and business administration. I managed driver performance, coordinated daily operations, and implemented processes to support the company's continued growth.

Initially balanced operational delivery with management responsibilities, before transitioning into a full-time leadership role to focus on scaling the business. I stepped away from the company in August 2023, leaving it in the capable hands of my other co directors as I wanted to step away from any management responsibilities. I took a 6 months break while my vetting process was being completed for my current job.

As General Manager, I was responsible for the overall day-to-day operation of a busy children's role-play centre, ensuring a safe, welcoming and enjoyable environment for children and their families. My primary focus was maintaining the highest standards of health and safety by carrying out comprehensive risk assessments, daily play area and café inspections, fire safety procedures and ensuring full compliance with company policies.

Alongside operational management, I developed strong administrative and organisational skills through managing customer bookings, responding to emails and telephone enquiries, and using a range of IT systems including Microsoft Word, Excel and online booking software. A key part of my role was delivering exceptional customer service by building positive relationships with families, resolving complaints professionally and ensuring every visitor received a high-quality experience.

I was responsible for leading the team to achieve key performance indicators, maintaining company brand standards and supporting staff to deliver consistently high levels of service. This role strengthened my leadership, communication and problem-solving abilities while developing my confidence in managing both people and business operations within a fast-paced customer-focused environment.

As a waiter at Frankie & Benny's, I was responsible for delivering excellent customer service in a fast-paced, high-volume restaurant environment. I regularly managed up to eight tables simultaneously, taking food and drink orders, serving customers efficiently and ensuring a positive dining experience from arrival through to departure.

The role required excellent communication, organisation and time management skills, as well as the ability to work effectively under pressure during busy service periods. I developed strong problem-solving skills by responding promptly to customer requests, resolving issues professionally and working closely with the wider team to maintain high standards of service and customer satisfaction.

I progressed from Team Member to Store Manager during my time at Costa Coffee, demonstrating a strong work ethic, commitment to personal development and the ability to lead and motivate a successful team. My priority was delivering an outstanding customer experience while ensuring the store consistently met the high operational and brand standards expected of a nationally recognised company.

As Store Manager, I was responsible for all aspects of the day-to-day running of the business, including staff management, stock control, rota planning, administrative duties, KPI performance, cash handling and ensuring company procedures were followed. I led by example, supporting my team on the shop floor during busy periods while coaching and developing colleagues to achieve high levels of performance and customer satisfaction.

The role provided me with a solid foundation in leadership, communication and people management, significantly developing my confidence from a young age. I also completed a range of professional development programmes through Costa Coffee, from the Maestro training programme to advanced brand excellence training, giving me valuable insight into operational excellence, quality standards and effective team leadership.

This role provided me with an excellent introduction to the hospitality industry while I was studying hospitality, with a particular focus on bar operations within a busy four-star hotel. I quickly became confident working independently behind the bar, serving a wide range of customers while maintaining high standards of service, professionalism and presentation.

I was trusted to take full responsibility for the day-to-day running of the bar, including opening and closing procedures, cash handling, stock replenishment, cellar management and cashing up at the end of each shift. Working independently allowed me to develop confidence, accountability and the ability to prioritise tasks effectively in a fast-paced environment.

Alongside the main hotel bar, I was regularly responsible for managing the function bar for private events and parties of up to 70 guests, ensuring efficient service during busy periods while delivering an excellent customer experience. This role strengthened my communication skills, ability to work under pressure and passion for customer service, providing a strong foundation for my future progression into management within the hospitality industry.