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- Tasks: Lead a dynamic kitchen team, crafting delicious British classics and ensuring top-notch service.
- Company: Join Shepherd Neame, Britain's oldest brewer with over 300 years of history and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, bonuses, discounts on food, drinks, and hotel stays, plus mental health support.
- Why this job: Be part of a vibrant culture that values teamwork, authenticity, and personal growth in a historic setting.
- Qualifications: Previous senior chef experience is essential; passion for food and leadership is a must.
- Other info: Diversity and inclusion are key; we welcome all qualified candidates to apply.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Shepherd Neame is seeking a dynamic Head Chef to join our team. If you have previous experience at a senior chef level and are looking for a new and rewarding challenge in the kitchen, this may be the perfect opportunity for you.
Located in the heart of Canterbury, the Shakespeare pub is situated on a quaint cobbled street near Canterbury Cathedral. It’s an ideal spot for dinner and drinks after a day exploring the city. The adjoining wine bar opens onto Buttermarket square, opposite the Cathedral's main entrance. Enjoy traditional British classics, Kentish gourmet burgers, artisanal sharing boards, and locally brewed ales and lagers from Shepherd Neame in Faversham.
We understand that an excellent Head Chef is essential for a successful kitchen. In this role, you will work alongside the General Manager to achieve key objectives, ensure customer satisfaction, and foster growth at your site. You will lead and develop your team to deliver efficient, high-quality kitchen service and support an inclusive culture within the business.
WHAT'S IN IT FOR YOU?
- Competitive annual salary package
- Bonus scheme
- Early wage withdrawal scheme
- 25% discount on food and drink at Shepherd Neame managed houses
- 25% discount on overnight hotel bookings at managed houses
- Up to 40% discount on select purchases at the Visitor Centre Shop in Faversham
- Sheps Hut discounts and offers at high street shops and services
- Access to a Workplace Mental Health Platform
- Company pension plan
- Opportunities for development and internal mobility within our pubs, brewery, and support offices
Shepherd Neame may be Britain’s oldest brewer, but our approach is modern and innovative. Our core values, or Sheps Skills, include:
- Working Together
- Pride and Passion
- Authenticity
- Sheps Spirit
WHO ARE WE?
Britain’s oldest brewer, Shepherd Neame, has been based in Faversham, Kent for over 300 years. As an independent family business, we operate an award-winning visitor centre and over 300 pubs and hotels across London and the South East, from the City to the Kent coast. We employ around 1,500 staff across our pub estate and more than 270 at our brewery and support office.
Diversity, equality, and inclusion are fundamental to Shepherd Neame. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, religion, or sexual orientation. We are committed to creating an inclusive and supportive working environment where everyone can thrive.
Head Chef employer: Shepherd Neame
Contact Detail:
Shepherd Neame Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Shepherd Neame's values and mission. Understanding their commitment to quality and community will help you align your experience and vision with theirs during any discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your leadership skills by preparing examples of how you've successfully managed a kitchen team in the past. Be ready to discuss how you foster an inclusive culture and drive team performance.
✨Tip Number 3
Research the menu offerings at the Shakespeare pub and think about how you can contribute to or enhance their culinary experience. Being able to discuss specific dishes or ideas will demonstrate your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with current or former employees of Shepherd Neame if possible. Gaining insights from their experiences can provide you with valuable information that you can use to tailor your approach when applying.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Chef
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your previous experience at a senior chef level. Focus on specific achievements in kitchen management, team leadership, and customer satisfaction that align with the role at Shepherd Neame.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for cooking and your understanding of traditional British cuisine. Mention why you are excited about the opportunity at the Shakespeare pub and how your values align with Shepherd Neame's core values.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: In your application, emphasise your ability to lead and develop a kitchen team. Provide examples of how you've fostered an inclusive culture and improved kitchen efficiency in your previous roles.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Include any relevant culinary qualifications or certifications that demonstrate your expertise. If you have experience with locally sourced ingredients or sustainable practices, be sure to mention that as well.
How to prepare for a job interview at Shepherd Neame
✨Showcase Your Culinary Skills
Be prepared to discuss your previous experience in detail, especially any senior chef roles. Bring examples of dishes you've created or menus you've designed, as this will demonstrate your creativity and expertise in the kitchen.
✨Emphasise Team Leadership
As a Head Chef, you'll need to lead and develop your team. Share specific examples of how you've successfully managed a kitchen team, resolved conflicts, or fostered an inclusive culture. This will show that you can create a positive working environment.
✨Understand the Company Values
Familiarise yourself with Shepherd Neame's core values, such as Working Together and Pride and Passion. During the interview, relate your personal values and experiences to these principles to demonstrate that you're a good cultural fit for the company.
✨Prepare Questions
Have thoughtful questions ready to ask about the role and the company. Inquire about their approach to menu development, team dynamics, or customer satisfaction strategies. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
