From hospitality training to the Guinness Storehouse: Finn Lyons’ career in tourism
Finn built his career at the Guinness Storehouse through training programmes designed to remove barriers to employment. He talks about what he loves about his work, the confidence it has given him, and what he'd tell others starting out.
This article was originally posted on the Journal. Read the full article on Journal.ie.
The programmes support people who may have faced barriers to education or employment and helps create pathways into the sector. Finn’s mother, Daire Ryan, described the impact the role has had on his confidence and independence:
“From my perspective, Finn getting a job in the Guinness Storehouse has been such a positive experience. It has not just built his confidence but also given him much more independence. Travelling to and from work independently, and most of all being treated as a peer by his colleagues.”
We spoke to Finn about his role, what he enjoys most about working in tourism, and the advice he would give others considering a career in the sector.
When you were younger, what did you want to be when you grew up?
“When I was small I wanted to grow up to be the manager of the German football team!“
What’s your job now and what does a typical day look like for you?
“I work in the Guinness Storehouse Visitor Experience team. When I arrive to work, I clock in, meet my manager and they tell me where I am working for the day. I usually work in the STOUTie Bar, where customers get their picture put onto a pint of Guinness. I take the visitor’s tickets, then I take their picture and print it on the head of the pint of Guinness. I clear away the glasses, put them on the tray for glass washer.“
What kind of education/training did you undergo for your current position?
“I did the Diageo Learning For Life course. I really liked it.“
What skills do you possess that make you a right fit for the job you’re in?
“I am good at pulling a pint. I really like talking to the visitors and my friends in work.“
What excites you most about the work you do?
“I like to meet the visitors and help them to enjoy their visit.“
If you could give others one piece of career advice what would it be?
“Find a course that you like, it might help you get a job.“
The International Day of Persons with Disabilities is celebrated each year on 3 December. Finn’s story shows how individuals, industries and society at large are enriched when everyone is given the supports they need to thrive.
- If you want to find out more about building stronger and more inclusive workplaces, check out Fáilte Ireland’s Recruitment Toolkit.
- Discover exciting career opportunities in tourism, visit tourismcareers.ie.