Meet an Arc Allstar: Cheryl Rowe

We're excited to announce the launch of our new Arc Allstar Milestone Scheme - a special initiative designed to celebrate and reward our amazing team members who have reached significant shift milestones: 500 and 1,000 shifts. This scheme recognises the commitment, flexibility, and outstanding contribution of those incredible team members who have gone above and beyond in their roles.

One of our very first recipients is Cheryl Rowe, a stand-out member of our team who has recently completed her 1,000th shift and there's no stopping there! Cheryl’s outstanding performance has made her highly sought-after across all our hubs throughout the UK, where she is now regularly called upon to manage bars and restaurants at high-profile events. Her impact is felt not only by clients - thanks to her ability to lead a seamless, guest-focused team - but also by colleagues, who deeply appreciate her positivity, care, and leadership. She's a firm favourite amongst our operations team, too!

We caught up with Cheryl to hear about her experiences, reflect on her time and Arc, and gather some great advice from the queen of hospitality herself.

What initially led you to apply for a role with Arc?

I initially applied to Arc because I was looking for something different in my career. Something that I would really enjoy doing. I saw an advert in indeed and the rest is history.

Can you tell us about your very first shift – how did it go, and what did you take away from the experience? 

My very first shift, I was very nervous. I was still working as a garden centre Café Manager at the time and I wanted to trial the shifts to see if I would like it. The shift was at Wigan Rugby at the DW Stadium. I was early (of course! I'm still always too early) but the coach with the other staff soon arrived. 

Amy was on the coach and came to see me. It was a bit like school sports day when we got into the stadium. - all the staff were on one side, the managers on the other - and the managers picked who they wanted in their restaurant.  I went to The Chairman's with Carl Horrocks, whom I still work with and we had a great shift. Probably about a few shifts in I put in my notice for the garden centre and have not looked back since.

 How has your confidence or skillset grown since working with Arc?

I started out working as a waitress and the bars. I now manage restaurants and bars all over and love the staff I work with. Such a diverse group of people with their own skill sets and I feel privileged to work with them. My confidence at work has grown enormously.  I can now walk into somewhere I don't know and just get on with it!

 What’s been your favourite shift or standout moment so far, and why?

My favourite shifts have to be Manchester United. I have been working there 4 seasons, all the staff are from Arc and we have a great team.

What advice would you give to someone thinking about joining Arc or starting their first shift?

I would definitely recommend working for Arc for whatever reason they want to be there, whether it be for a few weeks or long term. It's a fun place to work with great variety. One day you could be working in a field at a festival, the next at Ascot in a posh restaurant. 

What does working in hospitality mean to you now, compared to when you first started?

It's not just a job any more. I enjoy working at the different venues. It's a social event that I am privileged to be at.