At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team as a Runner and deliver exceptional service to our guests.
- Company: Heartwood Collection, an award-winning group of cosy pubs and brasseries.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, flexible hours, discounts, and bespoke training opportunities.
- Other info: Exciting expansion plans with progression opportunities across 40+ locations.
- Why this job: Be part of a vibrant community and grow your career in hospitality.
- Qualifications: Great interpersonal skills and a passion for excellent service.
The predicted salary is between 12 - 12 £ per hour.
At Heartwood Collection, we're on the lookout for passionate and vibrant individuals to join our team as a Runner. We're an award-winning group of cosy pubs and atmospheric brasseries that truly feel like home. From the elegance of Brasserie Blanc to the charm of Heartwood Inns, we pride ourselves on serving fresh, seasonal dishes to our local communities.
What we offer:
- Pay is based on National Living Wage
- TRONC*
- Bespoke training and development through our Stepping Stones programme
- Access to the Employee Assistance Program with Hospitality Action
- Instant pay access through EarlyPay
- Enhanced Maternity & Paternity leave
- Up to 1,500 Referral Bonus
- 50% off food at any Heartwood Inns or Brasserie Blanc, plus a 20% discount for family and friends
- A birthday gift and Long Service Recognition
- Discounts on hundreds of retailers and experiences via Reward Gateway
- Cycle to Work Scheme
About You:
- You're a people person with great interpersonal skills and love making guests feel special
- You're flexible, reliable, and passionate about delivering excellent service
- Eagerness to learn and understand hospitality
Heartwood Collection is a multi-award-winning hospitality group: Sunday Times Best Places to Work winner 2024, Double winner at the Publican Awards 2024, Best Pub Brand/Concept at the Publican Awards 2025. At Heartwood Collection, we're excited about the future. With over 40 locations now and plans to expand to more than 60 by 2027, including over 500 bedrooms, there's never been a better time to join us. We're committed to growing our team with progression opportunities across our estate. Join us and be part of a community that's warm, genuine, and full of life.
*The hourly rate includes the National Living Wage and TRONC, calculated from the expected 6 months' average. Please note, we cannot take applications from overseas or that require sponsorship.
Runner - The Black Horse, Thame employer: Heartwood Inns
At Heartwood Collection, we pride ourselves on being an award-winning hospitality group that fosters a warm and vibrant work culture. As a Runner at The Black Horse in Thame, you'll benefit from bespoke training through our Stepping Stones programme, generous employee discounts, and a commitment to your personal growth within our expanding team. Join us in creating memorable experiences for our guests while enjoying a supportive community that values your contributions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Runner - The Black Horse, Thame
✨Explore Local Hotspots
For entry-level roles in the hospitality food service industry, getting a foot in the door can often mean walking into local cafés, restaurants, or hotels with your CV in hand. Introduce yourself, ask about openings, and show your enthusiasm. This face-to-face approach can really set you apart from other candidates who just apply online!
✨Utilise Seasonal Hiring Trends
Keep an eye on the busy seasons, like summer or winter holidays, when restaurants and venues are ramping up for new staff. Many establishments look for extra hands during these peak times, so target your applications around these windows. Engage with local event calendars to find places that might be preparing for busy periods.
✨Join Hospitality Communities
Connect with local hospitality groups on social media or platforms like Meetup; they're a great way to learn about unadvertised opportunities and network with industry folks. Plus, you’ll get insider tips on where the best spots to apply are, and maybe even find a mentor to guide you through your first steps in the industry.
✨Polish those Soft Skills
In food service, your ability to communicate well and remain calm under pressure is crucial. Consider volunteering at local events or gatherings where you can showcase these skills. It not only adds experience to your CV but also demonstrates your willingness to learn and adapt, which is super enticing to potential employers like Heartwood Inns.
We think you need these skills to ace Runner - The Black Horse, Thame
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Skills:In the hospitality-food-service world, mentioning your customer service experience is key. Even if it’s just a part-time gig or a volunteer role, highlight how you made customers happy or handled tricky situations. We love seeing those people-focused skills in your application!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you've got any relevant certifications, like a food hygiene certificate or bartending course, make sure they shine in your CV. Certifications show you're serious about your craft, and we appreciate candidates who come prepared with the right knowledge and skills for the job.
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:For an entry-level position like this, your cover letter should reflect your enthusiasm and willingness to learn. Talk about why you’re excited about the role at Heartwood Inns and what you hope to gain from working in hospitality. Let your personality come through!
Keep Your CV Clear and Concise:In hospitality, hiring managers might be sifting through loads of applications. Keep your CV neat and ensure it highlights your relevant experience and skills without fluff. Stick to one page if you can, making it easy for us to see why you'd be a great fit at Heartwood Inns!
How to prepare for a job interview at Heartwood Inns
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
You'd be surprised at how many candidates stumble on questions about the menu! Make sure you familiarise yourself with the food and drink offerings at Heartwood Inns. Knowing the ingredients, cooking methods, and even the specials can really impress your interviewer and show you're genuinely interested.
✨Show Off Your Customer Service Skills
In the hospitality-food-service world, customer service is king. Prepare some examples of how you've handled customer interactions in the past, whether in a part-time job or even during group projects. Practising these scenarios can set you apart and highlight your problem-solving abilities.
✨Be Ready for Practical Assessments
Since you're going for an entry-level role, don't be surprised if they ask you to demonstrate your skills in a practical way. Whether that's making a drink or setting a table, brush up on basic hospitality tasks. It shows that you're not just talk, but you can walk the walk too!
✨Display Your Willingness to Learn
As an entry-level candidate, your enthusiasm and willingness to grow can go a long way. Be prepared to discuss what you hope to learn and how you can contribute to the team at Heartwood Inns. Your motivation can often outweigh experience, so let that passion shine through!
