Leadership series: Tim Painter

Our Leadership Series brings inspiring industry leadership to life through in-depth interviews. 

We are talking here to Tim Painter, HR Director at Stonegate Group. 

This interview with Tim Painter explores his professional journey, leadership perspective, and industry insights, introducing his role and the core mission of Stonegate’s organisation within the hospitality landscape. It delves into the early inspirations that led him into the sector, uncovering the motivations behind his career path. 

Tim examines the current state of the hospitality and service industry, highlighting the most pressing challenges as well as emerging opportunities. It also considers the broader macro-economic and social context, such as rising cost pressures, labour market dynamics, evolving customer expectations, and sustainability, and how these factors are reshaping what “success” looks like for businesses in the sector today and in the future. 

Tim also touches on the changes he would most like to influence within hospitality, whether through policy, regulation, social trends, or business models, and the reasoning behind those views, providing insight into how he and the team at Stonegate balance commercial performance with employee wellbeing, retention, and the development of a strong workplace culture. Talent remains a key theme, with a focus on the strategies that have proven most effective in attracting, developing, and retaining the next generation of professionals. The interview also reflects on pivotal moments in Tim’s career that have shaped his leadership style, along with key lessons learned that continue to influence his decision-making today. 

About Stonegate Group: Stonegate are the largest pub operator in the United Kingdom, running more than 4,500 pubs, bars, and late-night venues across the country. Founded in 2010, the company has grown rapidly through acquisitions, most notably the purchase of Ei Group in 2020, which cemented its position as a market leader in the UK hospitality sector. Stonegate operate a diverse portfolio that includes well-known high-street brands such as Slug & Lettuce, Be At One, Walkabout, and Popworld, alongside community pubs, leased and tenanted sites, and late-night venues.