From Experience to Leadership: Oliver’s Apprenticeship Journey

Oliver Addis-Fuller | Bar and Functions Manager, Glyn Clydach Hotel

Oliver Addis-Fuller has worked in hospitality since the age of 14, gaining invaluable experience at the ground level before progressing into management at the Glyn Clydach Hotel. Now Bar and Functions Manager, Oliver is using his apprenticeship with Cambrian Training Company to turn years of practical experience into strong leadership, commercial and operational skills and recognised qualifications.

Building a career in hospitality

Hospitality has been part of Oliver’s working life from a young age. By experiencing different areas of the industry, he developed a strong understanding of how hospitality teams operate and the importance of performing well under pressure.

When considering his next steps, university was an option, but Oliver felt that work-based learning was better suited to the practical nature of hospitality.

“I preferred developing hands-on management experience rather than learning theory separately from the industry.”

Oliver initially chose to complete a Level 3 Apprenticeship in Hospitality Supervision and Leadership to formalise his existing experience and strengthen his knowledge of financial performance, stock control, team leadership and operational planning. He has now progressed to Level 4 Hospitality Supervision and Leadership.

Learning through real responsibility

As Bar and Functions Manager at the Glyn Clydach Hotel, Oliver has significant responsibility within the day-to-day operation of the business.

His role includes managing bar operations and profitability, stock control and cost management, organising functions and events, team leadership and rota planning, maintaining service standards and supporting business growth initiatives.

This gives Oliver the opportunity to apply his apprenticeship learning directly to real workplace situations.

He spends five hours each week completing off-the-job training, including coursework, reflective writing, professional discussions and structured development tasks. Reviews and one-to-one meetings with his Cambrian Training Company Training Officer provide additional support.

Making an impact in the workplace

One of Oliver’s biggest achievements has been introducing a new stock management system at the hotel.

The system reduced stock-take time by 50%, while also improving efficiency and accuracy.

It is a practical example of how Oliver has been able to take the knowledge and skills developed through his apprenticeship and apply them to the workplace.

For Oliver, preparation and organisation are central to effective hospitality management.

“For me, preparation is everything. When systems are organised and expectations are clear, teams perform better and businesses grow stronger.”

Developing skills through high-profile events

Oliver organised the front-of-house setup for a prestigious sales event for Cygnet Gin, owned by Katherine Jenkins OBE.

The event took place at the unique location of Penderyn Distillery, and Oliver had to source and organise the transportation of all the tables, seating and tableware, as well asthe front-of-house service. His responsibilities included service planning and sequencing, staff briefing and coordination, managing the guest experience and maintaining professional presentation standards throughout the event.

Representing apprenticeships at the Senedd

Another milestone in Oliver’s apprenticeship journey was representing Cambrian Training Company on the company’s stand at the Senedd Apprenticeship Fair during Apprenticeship Week Wales.

Oliver showcased his professional mocktail-making skills while engaging with Senedd Members, including the First Minister, as well as visitors, sharing his apprenticeship journey and first-hand experience of the benefits of work-based learning.

Oliver (left) speaking with Rhun ap Iorwerth, now First Minister of Wales at the Cambrian Training stand at the Senedd Apprenticeship Fair 2026.

Oliver with Jack Sargeant, then Minister for Culture, Skills & Social Partnership at the Senedd Apprenticeship Fair 2026.

“Representing Cambrian Training Company at the Apprenticeship Fair at the Senedd was a major milestone, as it recognised my progress and gave me the opportunity to represent hospitality apprentices at a national level,” Oliver said.

Staying disciplined outside of work

Oliver’s drive for self-improvement doesn’t stop when he clocks off. He is a keen Hyrox competitor, having taken on the fitness race in Norway last year, and this year he’s preparing to compete in Sweden.

Oliver competing in Hyrox last year, in Norway.

Oliver also plays rugby for Glynneath Rugby Club first team, bringing the same teamwork, resilience and competitive edge onto the pitch that he applies behind the bar.

Oliver playing for Glynneath Rugby Club.

For Oliver, the same discipline that drives his sporting achievements underpins his approach to work, providing further proof that the preparation and consistency he demonstrates in the hotel are equally important in achieving his personal goals.

Looking to the future

Oliver’s long-term ambition is to lead high-performing hospitality operations that are commercially strong, well organised and supportive of their teams.

He would encourage others considering an apprenticeship to take ownership of their development, apply what they learn in the workplace and regularly ask for feedback.

“Apprenticeships accelerate development because you are solving real operational challenges while receiving professional guidance. They build both confidence and credibility.”

For Oliver, combining practical responsibility with structured learning is helping him prepare for the next stage of his hospitality career.

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