In the fast-paced and dynamic world of Quick Service Restaurants (QSR), the value of collaboration cannot be overstated. With consumer preferences, trends and generational needs changing all the time, we need to be on the front foot to adapt quickly and there is no question that collaboration helps us achieve this.
Whilst it drives efficient operations, customer experience and sales – in my experience at Wingstop UK the importance and benefit of collaboration goes far beyond that; we see that within our teams it is not just beneficial, it is essential.
Collaboration remains true to our core, nurturing a positive workplace culture – one that we are proud of – from boosting employee morale, motivation and satisfaction, encouraging career development and progression, as well as safeguarding wellbeing.
Since Wingstop UK launched in 2018, we have grown to a team of approximately 1,600 employees. From our first site in Cambridge Circus in London with just a team of 45, our footprint now spans 14 major cities and towns across the UK. In 2023, we received over 10,000 applications for our Manchester Piccadilly site alone.
To keep up with this rapid expansion we pride ourselves in creating an inclusive environment across all our teams, whether it be suppliers, back or front of house, finance, marketing and management.
We want all of our employees to bring their own personalities to work every day as we recognise and reward hard work, especially during particularly busy periods, with incentives and prizes you might normally see from your average employer.
“We understand and truly believe that collaboration of departments is essential. With seamless communication, support, and trust in each other, we can create something bigger than what each individual can build on their own.” – Kelly Green, Recruitment Partner NSOs.
A key part of collaboration is our learning focussed culture which we have cultivated through a robust Learning & Development framework, dismantling the outdated stigma around QSR careers. We want to help people start, develop and grow their careers in the hospitality sector – retaining talent in an industry which typically has high turnover. As such, to appeal to young professionals, particularly Gen Z who we know value organisational support and training, last September our incredible Senior Learning & Development Manager, Craig Benson developed and launched the Step-Up Program; this was aimed at equipping managers with the skills and competencies for success now and in the long term.
The Step-Up Program is a five-week training program which supports crew members make the transition to shift managers. Catering to different learning preferences and needs, the program is delivered through a blend of online leaning, hands-on training, and workshops.
This blend of theoretical knowledge, through interactive and user-driven online modules and practical skills bridges the gap between the classroom and real-world applications. The workshops in particular encourage collaboration, address skill gaps, and build leadership capabilities.
“I can’t tell you how much the step up has impacted my life, I have been able to achieve my first leadership role, in a brand I love, acquired a huge number of skills and more importantly, has given me confidence I never knew I had, it has changed my life inside and outside of work.” – Noah McMaster, Shift Manager at Edinburgh Fountain Park, part of the first Step-Up program cohort.
Since launching, we have received nearly eighty applications for the program, with almost fifty participants having already passed, and now working as shift managers. Most notably, we have noticed a shift in managerial recruitment from external hires to internal promotions, which is great news for our teams! We feel very proud as to where the programme has got to within six months, having changing Wingstop UK for the better – a huge shout out to Craig who and has been the brains, imagination and driving force behind the programme.
“Operational and people management skills are crucial in the QSR industry, and the Step-Up Program provides a clear career pathway for crew members, equipping them with the necessary skills and training for continued growth within the company. The numbers speak for themselves, and we are now seeing upwards of thirty applications from aspiring leaders per cohort.” – Craig Benson, Senior Learning & Development Manager.
Looking ahead, we are excited to launch the next phase of our people development strategy, with the General Manager and Assistant Manager Step-Up Program. Watch this space.
Investing in programs like Step-Up reflect our continued commitment to collaboration across all areas of our business – all the way from our founders to our kitchen teams and this builds on what Wingstop UK stands for, its authenticity and desire for each team to collaborate seamlessly – such open communication stemming from our founders is unique and lives through the business.
Initiatives like the Step-Up Program are transformative, not just within the work place but in the personal lives of our employees. It empowers them to take charge of their careers, develops their interpersonal skills, and become great leaders.
“Collaboration at Wingstop UK is what sets us apart in QSR. We work together across all functions to support each other and to make sure we’re constantly striving to be the best at what we do; building a positive workplace culture and delivering exceptional flavour experiences to our customers.” – Laura Wharton, People Partner.
We are setting a new standard in QSR. Collaboration is more than just a buzzword – it is embedded into everything we do, creating a place for growth that our teams are proud to be part of.
Tickled your tastebuds? Here’s our top tips for applying for a role at Wingstop UK:
Don’t be nervous – the team will go out their way to make you feel comfortable in your interview.
It’s all about a positive and honest attitude – we can teach you the skills you need to succeed.
Be yourself!
For more information on how to apply, visit https://www.wingstop.co.uk/careers
