At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead daily operations, ensuring exceptional hospitality and a welcoming atmosphere for all guests.
- Company: Chickpea, a founder-owned pub group with a focus on great people and great service.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, shared service charge, 50% off food, and a £100 birthday voucher.
- Other info: Access to 24/7 support for wellbeing and opportunities for career growth.
- Why this job: Join a fun team, develop your skills, and make every guest feel at home.
- Qualifications: Experience in hospitality, leadership skills, and a passion for people and service.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 35005 £ per year.
The Great Decoy is our newest opening and first pub in Hampshire. It sits in the Test Valley and is the kind of village that deserves a good pub. The name comes from WWII, when local people came together to build a network of decoy installations to mislead enemy aircraft. We're looking for an Assistant General Manager who'll make sure every guest feels welcome, whether they're here for one drink or the whole evening. This is a hands-on role. You'll lead from the front, help build a team that genuinely enjoys working together, and set the standard every day.
About Chickpea: We're founder-owned and seven years in. Today, we run ten pubs across the South West, but the idea hasn't changed much since day one. Great pubs are built by great people. Our places are a reflection of the teams who work in them. From the kitchen to the bar, we believe exceptional hospitality comes from people who genuinely care about the industry and the guests in front of them. We want every guest to feel as though they've been welcomed into someone's home. That means getting the small things right, paying attention to the detail, and looking after people properly.
Why Chickpea? We offer flexible working patterns that fit around your life, not the other way round. Every penny of service charge is shared across the whole team — chefs, front-of-house and housekeeping included — with complete transparency through your own Grateful account. If you work a six-hour shift, you eat from the menu. Away from work, you'll enjoy 50% off food at any of our pubs for you and up to five guests. We close on Christmas Day. Each year, we bring everyone together for the Annual Chickpea Awards Bash to celebrate the people who make the business what it is. On your birthday, you'll receive a £100 voucher to spend at any of our pubs. There are also monthly rewards and giveaways, including the chance to win a night away at one of our places. We recognise long service too. Throughout the year, we organise team trips and away days, from visits to local suppliers to trips abroad. If you're ambitious and want to develop, we'll build a training programme around you. Whether that's WSET qualifications, apprenticeships, leadership development or broadening your skills across the business, the opportunities are there for those who want them. We're committed to helping people build long and rewarding careers in hospitality. And because life isn't always straightforward, you'll also have access to confidential 24/7 support for your mental, physical and financial wellbeing.
What You’ll Be Doing:
- Leading the pub day-to-day, making sure everything runs smoothly from kitchen to bar to floor.
- Welcoming and hosting guests with warmth, energy, and a big smile.
- Supporting the General Manager to create a fun, safe, and professional workplace.
- Supervising, coaching, and motivating the team to deliver exceptional hospitality, every time.
- Running shifts, setting the standard for food, drinks, and hospitality.
- Handling bookings, customer requests, and feedback like a pro.
- Assisting the GM in managing stock, cash, and admin so everything adds up and runs to plan.
- Keeping an eye on compliance with health, safety, and licensing requirements.
- Helping plan events, promotions, and ways to make every visit memorable.
- Making sure every guest leaves happy (and keen to come back!).
What We’re Looking For:
- Hospitality experience in a busy pub, restaurant, or bar.
- Previous supervisory or leadership experience preferred.
- A genuine love for people, food, and drink.
- Someone who takes pride in getting the details right and making things happen.
- Positive, reliable, and ready to roll up your sleeves.
- A natural team player with energy and enthusiasm.
Assistant General Manager in Andover employer: The Great Decoy
At Chickpea, we pride ourselves on creating a warm and welcoming environment where every team member is valued and empowered to thrive. As an Assistant General Manager at The Great Decoy in the picturesque Test Valley, you'll enjoy flexible working patterns, shared service charge transparency, and generous discounts, all while being part of a close-knit team that celebrates exceptional hospitality. With ample opportunities for personal and professional growth, including tailored training programmes and team-building events, Chickpea is committed to fostering a rewarding career in the vibrant world of hospitality.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant General Manager in Andover
✨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 The Great Decoy. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to The Great Decoy
Don't be shy about reaching out to The Great Decoy 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 Assistant General Manager in Andover
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 The Great Decoy 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 The Great Decoy
✨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!
