A career with Oakman Inns starts with a pizza. Successful job applicants are sent a voucher for a free pizza, so that they can come into one of the pubs or restaurants, test the food and see the team at work.

The casual dining pub and restaurant group has been operating since 2007 and owns a range of venues, mainly in Hertfordshire, Oxfordshire and Lancashire. Its vision was to create an environment where like-minded people could come and enjoy great food and drinks while catching up with friends, family, neighbours and colleagues.

The group's SPEED system of values promotes sustainability, a passion for pubbiness, engaged teams, excellent operations and design and detail.

To keep staff engaged, the Heart of Oakman reward system recognises team members who are living the company's values, going beyond the call of duty and providing great customer service. Awards are divided into bronze, silver and gold and come with a personal message from their manager.

A fast-track programme trains managers to be business leaders through face-to-face coaching and effective management guidance. It incorporates peer review feedback.

The group also encourages inclusivity. It has a relationship with Bullingdon prison, in Bicester, Oxfordshire, attending its job fairs to discuss opportunities with prisoners on their release. It also supports DENS, a homelessness charity that aims to bring disadvantaged people back into the workplace.