At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire teams in a fast-paced restaurant environment.
- Company: Join Hickory's Smokehouse, crowned 'Best Pub Employer' for 2025!
- Benefits: Earn up to £57,000 plus bonuses, with excellent training and progression.
- Other info: Enjoy team perks like free BBQ, birthday meals, and road trips!
- Why this job: Be part of the fastest growing Southern style Smokehouse group in the UK.
- Qualifications: Experience in a similar role and a passion for guest satisfaction.
The predicted salary is between 51300 - 62700 £ per year.
Start an exciting new chapter in your hospitality career at Hickory's Smokehouse - We arethrilled to have been recently crowned the‘Best Pub Employer’ for 2025 at The Publican Awards!
Join us as an Area Manager and we can offer you a generous package of up to £57,000 per year plus bonuses and a car allowance contribution.
The Role
Are you currently an Area Manager looking to take the next step? We are looking to appoint an experienced Area Manager to support us with our sustained growth in the region.
As the fastest growing, independent Southern style Smokehouse group in the UK, Hickory’s is really going places – and we want to take you with us. From industry leading training to epic enrichment and progression opportunities, we invest as much in our Managers as we do in our food, brand and overall guest experience.
Essential requirements of a Hickory’s Area Manager
- Previous experience in a similar role within a fast-paced restaurant environment
- Strong passion for the industry and for guest satisfaction
- Ability to lead and inspire teams of up to 10 Managers and up to 130 Team Members in each restaurant
How we will Thank You for being a Hickory’s Area Manager
• A generous Area Managerpackage of up to £57,000per yearplusbonuses!
- Excellent training & progression opportunities – through our award-winning Hickory’s Training Academy.
- Qualification opportunitiesas you working (up to A-Level & Degree level equivalent)
- Birthday reward mealon us for you & your friends - every year.
- Free smokin’ BBQ on shift– team food & drinks menu.
- Christmas Day off work- every year.
- Moments that matter-Paid occasions days off (Wedding day, kid’s first day at school, moving into first home & more).
- Team Player card –25% discount for you & 5 friends in all Hickory’s (rising to 50% for loyal service).
- Road trips to the Southern States, Europe & UK and stacks of enrichment opportunities.
- Wellbeing support& 24-hour access to our wellness programme.
- Our pledge to a work-life balance– monitoring & managing through our Red Zone.
- A packedteam social & engagementcalendar & annual team party.
- A chance to ‘give a bit back’ with fundraising activitiesfor Cash For Kids
- Up to £500 for you– through the refer a friend scheme
- #J-18808-Ljbffr
Area Manager employer: Hickory's Smokehouse
At Hickory's Smokehouse, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that champions creativity and teamwork. As a Junior Sous Chef, you'll benefit from our award-winning training academy, generous salary package, and a strong focus on work-life balance, all while working in a state-of-the-art kitchen with passionate BBQ enthusiasts. Join us to not only advance your culinary career but also to be part of a community that values your growth and well-being.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Area Manager
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like Hickory's Smokehouse. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Hickory's Smokehouse
Don't be shy about reaching out to Hickory's Smokehouse directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Area Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about Hickory's Smokehouse and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hickory's Smokehouse
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!
