At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team as a Restaurant Team Member, welcoming customers and providing excellent service.
- Company: Shepherd Neame is Britain's oldest brewer with over 300 pubs and a commitment to diversity.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, tips, discounts on food, drinks, and hotel stays, plus flexible hours.
- Other info: We offer training and career development opportunities within our pubs and brewery.
- Why this job: Perfect for those who love hospitality and want to grow in a supportive, dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: No experience needed; just bring enthusiasm and a customer-focused attitude!
Restaurant Team Member
Oak on the Green
Employment type: Full Time
Contract: Permanent
Salary: Up to £12.80 per hour
Restaurant Team Member – Serve Up Great Experiences with Britain’s Oldest Brewer!
At Shepherd Neame, we know that first impressions count. As a Restaurant Team Member, you’ll play a key role in creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere and delivering exceptional service to every guest. From greeting customers to serving delicious food and drinks, you’ll help make every visit memorable.
No experience? No problem! If you have the right attitude and passion for hospitality, we’ll give you all the training and support you need.
Where You’ll Be Working
Located in Bearstead, near Maidstone, the Oak on the Green sits on one of the prettiest village greens in England. Founded in 1665, the Oake Inn, famous visitors to the pub include Baroness Orczy, creator of the Scarlet Pimpernel, and Kent leg spin bowler Alfred Percy ‘Tich’ Freeman. Today, the Oak on the Green is renowned for using largely local produce throughout the extensive food menu offering both British and Mexican cuisine.
What You’ll Do
- Welcome guests with warmth and ensure they feel valued throughout their visit.
- Take orders accurately and serve food and drinks promptly.
- Maintain a clean, organised dining area and uphold hygiene standards.
- Work closely with the kitchen and bar teams to ensure smooth service.
- Handle customer queries and resolve issues professionally.
- Contribute ideas to improve the guest experience.
What’s In It For You?
- Competitive hourly pay plus a share of tips
- Early wage withdrawal scheme
- 25% discount on food and drink at Shepherd Neame Managed Houses
- 25% discount on overnight stays at Managed House Hotels
- Up to 40% off select purchases from our Visitor Centre Shop in Faversham
- Exclusive discounts via Sheps Hut on hundreds of high street brands
- Access to a Workplace Mental Health Platform
- Company pension plan
- Career development opportunities across our pubs, Brewery, and Support Office
- Flexible working hours to suit your lifestyle
What You’ll Need
We’re looking for behaviours that make a great team member:
- Sheps Spirit – you inspire confidence and keep morale high.
- Working Together – you enjoy developing others and working collaboratively.
- Authenticity – you take ownership and pride in delivering results.
- Pride and Passion – you go the extra mile to make guests feel valued.
Why Shepherd Neame?
Our culture is built on Sheps Spirit, Working Together, Pride and Passion, and Authenticity; values that have guided us for over 300 years. When you join us, you become part of a team that celebrates tradition while shaping the future.
Restaurant Team Member in Maidstone employer: Shepherd Neame
Shepherd Neame is an excellent employer, offering a vibrant work culture where enthusiasm and a customer-focused attitude are valued above all. Located by the picturesque River Medway, our team members enjoy competitive pay, flexible hours, and numerous discounts, alongside opportunities for career development within our historic family business. Join us to be part of a supportive environment that champions diversity and inclusion, ensuring every employee can thrive.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Restaurant Team Member in Maidstone
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Shepherd Neame's values and the specific skills they are looking for, such as teamwork and customer focus. During your interactions, whether in person or online, demonstrate how you embody these qualities.
✨Tip Number 2
Visit The Boathouse before applying to get a feel for the atmosphere and service style. This will help you speak knowledgeably about the venue during any interviews and show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current or former employees of Shepherd Neame if possible. They can provide insights into the company culture and what it takes to succeed as a Restaurant Team Member, which can be invaluable during your application process.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your enthusiasm for hospitality and any relevant experiences, even if they are not directly related to the industry. Highlighting your passion for customer service can set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Restaurant Team Member in Maidstone
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role:Read the job description carefully to understand what Shepherd Neame is looking for in a Restaurant Team Member. Highlight your enthusiasm for hospitality and customer service in your application.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects your skills and experiences relevant to the role. Even if you lack direct hospitality experience, emphasise transferable skills such as teamwork, communication, and a positive attitude.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for the hospitality industry and your eagerness to learn. Mention why you want to work at Shepherd Neame specifically and how you align with their values.
Proofread Your Application:Before submitting, double-check your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application demonstrates attention to detail and professionalism, which are important in the hospitality sector.
How to prepare for a job interview at Shepherd Neame
✨Show Your Enthusiasm
Since Shepherd Neame values enthusiasm and a customer-focused attitude, make sure to express your passion for hospitality during the interview. Share examples of how you enjoy interacting with people and creating positive experiences.
✨Research the Company
Familiarise yourself with Shepherd Neame's history and values. Understanding their commitment to diversity, equality, and inclusion will help you align your answers with their company culture, showing that you're a good fit for the team.
✨Prepare for Common Questions
Think about how you would respond to typical interview questions such as 'How do you handle difficult customers?' or 'What does excellent customer service mean to you?'. Practising your answers can help you feel more confident during the interview.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, be ready to ask questions about the role or the company. This shows your interest and engagement. You might ask about training opportunities or what a typical day looks like for a Restaurant Team Member.
