How to Change Career to Run a Pub in 4 Steps

There’s a reason so many people want to change career and run a pub—and you only need to scroll LinkedIn for a short while to find out why.

All those posts talking about how to create more empathic working environments and how to spot “toxic” ones… What do they tell you, especially if you’re already wondering what to do with your life next? In short, they highlight that being self-employed could reduce a lot of the pressures of working for someone else and potentially make life a lot more satisfying.

You’d have a lot more freedom to do things your own way. You’d be able to create a workplace built on your own values. The buck would stop with you—including whether or not the business was successful. Yes, you’d be taking on a lot of pressure—but it would be your business, so it would be worth it.

So how do you go about it? Here are our top tips on how to change your career to run a pub.

1. Do your research

It’s important that you know what you’re getting yourself into, before you start. Look into the different ways of running pubs—here at Marston’s, for instance, we offer various types of tenancies (see below). Don’t forget to ask other publicans what you need to know before going into it either. Having breadth and depth of knowledge up front will help you to focus your business plan.

2. Plan it all to the last detail

You might think it’s enough to commit to the decision, put some money to one side and then find the perfect pub. If you’re an experienced businessperson, though, you’ll know there’s a lot more to it than that. You’ll need a vision for your pub, a proper business plan and a thorough exit strategy to allow you to leave your current role without any unnecessary stress. No amount of planning is too much.

3. Don’t go it alone

Buying a pub, having your name above the door and being a landlord or landlady is a massive responsibility. One, we believe, that’s best suited to seasoned publicans who know every little detail of how to successfully run a pub.

If you’re changing career to do this, the far safer, more low-risk route is to partner with a pub company, like Marston’s. With an agreement like our Pillar Partnership, you’ll still be your own boss with lots of freedom to do things your own way, but you’ll also have the support of a business with a heritage of nearly 200 years.

4. Leave your old role with dignity

Even if you’re changing career because you just don’t like what you do anymore, it’s really really important to remain professional and leave your current employment on the best terms possible. Although a dramatic ‘mic-drop’ might feel satisfying at the time, there is real value in retaining good ties with your former colleagues and bosses (you never know, they may be your customers once day).

Give plenty of notice—at least the minimum amount required on your contract— and if necessary, mend any broken bridges with former colleagues before you say goodbye. A farewell party is a great idea, allowing you to leave on a high, excited to take on your next big challenge.

To find out more about what it’s like to run your own pub, visit the Marston’s blog where you’ll find advice, guidance and much more on how to make your dream of running a pub come true.