At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead shifts, deliver exceptional guest experiences, and support team development.
- Company: Join Hickory's Smokehouse, crowned ‘Best Pub Employer’ for 2025!
- Benefits: Earn up to £16.21 per hour, including tips, plus great perks.
- Other info: Enjoy free team food, paid time off for life's big moments, and career progression.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in hospitality while enjoying work-life balance.
- Qualifications: Must be 18+, with a passion for guest service and leadership.
The predicted salary is between 16.21 - 16.21 £ per hour.
Join us as a Shift Leader and we can offer you a package of up to £16.21 per hour including Tip Jar! Start an exciting new chapter in your hospitality career at Hickory's Smokehouse - We are thrilled to have been recently crowned the ‘Best Pub Employer’ for 2025 at The Publican Awards!
The Shift Leader supports the management team by leading shifts, delivering exceptional guest experience, and ensuring strong operational execution. This role focuses on setting the standard on shift, supporting team development, and driving performance through effective communication, coaching, and decision‑making. The Shift Leader plays a key role in maintaining people standards, guest experience, and restaurant results.
So, if you love guests, ooze personality & you’re eager to develop your art, you would definitely fit in with us. We can offer you real progression opportunities and a company culture that really cares and embraces work life balance. You’ll be rewarded with competitive pay & a host of benefits on offer. You work hard for us, and we will invest in you. Big time.
Why join Hickory's?
- A package of up to £16.21 per hour including Tip Jar – that’s up to £3.00 per hour in tips!
- £250k bespoke-built kitchen with USA-imported smokers
- Award-winning training & clear progression opportunities
- Free team food on shift & a birthday meal on us – Huge BBQ menu with endless possibilities!
- Christmas Day off
- Paid time off for life’s big moments (weddings, first day at school, moving into your first home & more)
- 25% team discount across Hickory’s (Rising to 50% with loyal service)
- 24/7 wellbeing support & a culture that truly values work–life balance
- Road trips to the Southern States, Europe & UK and stacks of enrichment opportunities
- A chance to ‘give a bit back’ with fundraising activities for Cash For Kids
- Up to £1000 for you – through the refer a friend scheme
Please note: To be considered for this position you must have the legal right to work in the UK and be at least 18 years old.
Shift Leader employer: Surety Hospitality
Poolhouse in the City of London is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises team collaboration and guest satisfaction. With ample opportunities for leadership growth within a large and dynamic hospitality environment, employees are encouraged to develop their skills while enjoying the excitement of a bustling setting. Join us to be part of a team that values innovation and excellence in every guest experience.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Shift Leader
✨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 Surety Hospitality. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Surety Hospitality
Don't be shy about reaching out to Surety Hospitality 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 Shift Leader
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 Surety Hospitality 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 Surety Hospitality
✨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!
