Melissa Winter, 30, was named Deputy Manager of the Year by RedCat Independent Pubs after joining The Nags Head in May 2024.
She said: “I was bumbling around trying to find what fitted me best.
“Then I tried hospitality working as a bar manager at a festival and loved it and when I came to work at The Nags Head, I absolutely found my niche.
Melissa Winter (Image: RedCat Independent Pubs) “What I love about it is every day is different. There is always something new to learn and to pick up.”
Before moving into hospitality, Ms Winter worked as a shop manager, prison officer, maths and English teacher, and spent time in banking.
Her role at the historic 15th-century pub involves turning her hand to anything from running the restaurant and hosting event meetings, to coordinating and managing wedding celebrations.
She said: “You need to be able to adapt, trust your own instincts, but once you know how a place runs it becomes an extension of you.”
Ms Winter, who has received a string of compliments and praise from people who have posted online reviews, said customer satisfaction is at the heart of her work.
She said: “I always go out of my way to ensure people have a good day and if they are happy, it makes my job more fulfilling.”
The award recognised her leadership skills and ability to take charge in the absence of the general manager.
Richard Lewis, CEO of RedCat Independent Pubs, said Ms Winter, who hopes to become a general manager in the future, has played a key role in the success of the business.
She added: “It was a real surprise to win but lovely. I had never before considered myself as being the best at something. I just come to work each day and do my best.”
The Nags Head is one mile from Great Missenden Railway Station, 0.6 miles from the town of Great Missenden, and a 15-minute walk from the Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre.
Simple rooms come with ensuite bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs, as well as tea and coffee-making facilities.
All rooms have countryside or garden views, and family rooms are available.
Complimentary perks include off-street parking and English breakfast.
The gastropub offers English-French fusion meals and al fresco dining in the garden, and these is also a bar with an inglenook fireplace and an oak-beamed ceiling, serving real ales.
