Andrew Banham
Addlestone,Surrey
Summary
A reliable, adaptable and customer-focused professional with experience across customer service, hospitality, entertainment, retail, housekeeping, coaching and self-employed work. Confident in communicating with people from all backgrounds, delivering exceptional customer experiences and building positive relationships. Experienced working in fast-paced, high-pressure environments, leading groups, maintaining high safety standards and adapting quickly to new challenges. Most recently completed an eight-month international cruise ship contract, combining professional entertainment with guest engagement, leadership responsibilities and maritime safety duties. A proactive team player with excellent organisational skills, a strong work ethic and the ability to work independently while consistently maintaining high standards.
Overview
1
1
Certification
8
8
years of professional experience
Work history
Show Company Performer
Fred Olson cruise lines
2025.10 - 2026.06
- Successfully completed an eight-month international cruise ship contract, learning and performing six full-scale production shows featuring professional singing and dance within demanding rehearsal schedules.
- Worked closely with directors, choreographers and creative teams throughout an intensive rehearsal process, interpreting creative direction and bringing artistic visions to life while maintaining exceptional performance standards.
- Performed in a variety of production shows, themed events and cabarets, including creating, producing and performing an original solo cabaret, demonstrating creativity, initiative and self-management.
- Delivered outstanding customer service through daily guest interaction, hosting social events and activities, and building positive relationships with passengers from a wide range of cultures and backgrounds while representing the cruise line professionally.
- Worked collaboratively with performers, musicians, technicians and other onboard departments, adapting quickly to changing schedules and maintaining high standards in a fast-paced international environment.
- Completed comprehensive maritime safety and emergency response training and served as Deputy Leader for the Starboard Lifeboat Station, supporting emergency preparedness, passenger management and crew coordination during drills and emergency procedures.
- Demonstrated professionalism, resilience, leadership and the ability to remain calm under pressure while living and working independently as part of a diverse onboard team.
Retail & Admissions Host
Chessington World of Adventures
2021.04 - 2021.11
- Delivered excellent customer service to over 100 people a day in a busy theme park environment.
- Processed ticket sales, retail purchases and annual pass transactions accurately using tills and payment systems.
- Managed cash handling and till reconciliation responsibly.
- Assisted guests with enquiries, directions and complaint resolution in a professional manner.
- Independently managed retail outlets, replenished stock, received deliveries and maintained merchandising standards.
- Completed daily food safety checks, including stock rotation and fridge/freezer temperature monitoring.
- Operated entrance and exit gates efficiently while directing guests throughout the park.
- Part-time while studying
Entertainment Host
Chessington World of Adventures Resort
2024.06 - 2024.09
- Delivered engaging entertainment experiences for hotel guests through games, performances and interactive activities.
- Performed as both a costume character and character escort, ensuring exceptional guest experiences.
- Hosted and managed large groups of children and adults, providing clear instructions while maintaining a safe and enjoyable environment.
- Adapted communication styles to suit guests of all ages and resolved enquiries professionally.
- Worked collaboratively with entertainment and hotel teams to deliver memorable guest experiences.
Housekeeping Assistant
Chessington World of Adventures Resort
2022.07 - 2022.09
- Maintained exceptional cleanliness and presentation standards across guest accommodation.
- Consistently met daily productivity targets while maintaining quality.
- Responded efficiently to guest requests and ensured excellent customer satisfaction.
- Maintained organised storage areas and adhered to strict hygiene and health & safety procedures.
Kennel assistant hand ( voluntary)
New Malden Vets
2018.04 - 2020.08
- Supported veterinary staff with day to day operations, including assisting during minor procedures
- maintained a high standard of animal care, cleanliness and hygiene
- organised medication and perception storage areas
- assisted with administration and basic IT support while demonstrating flexibility and reliability
Education
Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma - Performing Arts
Nescot College
Epsom 09/2020 - 06/2022
GCSEs -
Southborough High School
09/2015 - 06/2020
BA (Hons) - Musical theatre (Triple Threat)
Chichester conservatoire
Chichester 09/2022 - 06/2025
Skills
- Customer Service Excellence
- Communication & Relationship Building
- Leadership & Teamwork
- Public Speaking & Group Management
- Problem Solving & Conflict Resolution
- Organisation & Time Management
- Cash Handling & Till Operations
- Stock Control & Merchandising
- Health & Safety Compliance
- Maritime Safety Awareness
- Coaching & Mentoring
- Event Hosting & Guest Engagement
- Attention to Detail
- Adaptability & Flexibility
- IT & Administrative Support
- Working Under Pressure
Certification
- British Sign Language (BSL) Level 1 Certificate
- Full UK Driving Licence
References
Available upon request.
Achievements & Interests
- musical theatre, performing arts
- singing
- Players Academy Performing Arts School, Awarded a scholarship to join the academy.
- knitting and crochet
Timeline
Show Company Performer
Fred Olson cruise lines
2025.10 - 2026.06
Entertainment Host
Chessington World of Adventures Resort
2024.06 - 2024.09
Housekeeping Assistant
Chessington World of Adventures Resort
2022.07 - 2022.09
Retail & Admissions Host
Chessington World of Adventures
2021.04 - 2021.11
Kennel assistant hand ( voluntary)
New Malden Vets
2018.04 - 2020.08
GCSEs -
Southborough High School
09/2015 - 06/2020
BA (Hons) - Musical theatre (Triple Threat)
Chichester conservatoire
09/2022 - 06/2025
Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma - Performing Arts
Nescot College
09/2020 - 06/2022