Openings Manager

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!

As an Openings Manager, you will play a key role in launching new restaurants, setting the tone from day one. You are an experienced senior manager passionate about maintaining high operational standards and fostering a positive, empowering culture. Working closely with stakeholders, you will ensure each new Smokehouse opens with energy, consistency, and purpose-delivering an exceptional experience for teams and guests alike.

Responsibilities & deliverables:

Team:

• Actively train and coach new teams, including management.
• Lead by example during the initial weeks of trading to meet required standards within the timeline.
• Support the recruitment of new team members alongside the Openings Operations Manager and people team.
• Assist in managing and mentoring support teams.
• Promote our culture and values with a positive attitude.

Guests:

• Guide new team members in fostering community spirit among staff and guests.
• Monitor guest experience and feedback, implementing improvements as needed.
• Use Southern Hospitality to WOW and thrill guests.
• Continuously enhance operational processes for better guest experiences.
• Create inviting, friendly environments in our restaurants daily.

Restaurants:

• Support the management of multiple timelines and tasks.
• Achieve KPIs for openings and early trading weeks.
• Ensure a smooth handover to the management team with all goals met.
• Conduct post-opening analyses to improve future openings.
• Plan for contingencies proactively.
• Drive NPS scores within restaurants for continuous improvement.

Thank Yous & Benefits:

• Up to £43,000 per year including Tip Jar!
• Training & progression through our Hickory's Training Academy.
• Qualifications up to A-Level & Degree level.
• Annual birthday reward meal for you and friends.
• Free shift meals and drinks.
• Christmas Day off every year.
• Paid special occasions (weddings, first days at school, etc.).
• 25% discount for you and 5 friends (rising to 50%).
• Road trips and enrichment opportunities.
• Wellbeing support and 24-hour wellness access.
• Work-life balance management through our Red Zone.
• Team social events and annual party.
• Fundraising activities for Cash For Kids.
• Referral scheme up to £500.

If you're interested or want to learn more, click 'apply' now and speak with your GM or Area Manager. Join us on this roadtrip to the future of Hickory's!