Head Chef in Crawley

Head Chef in Crawley

Crawley Full-Time 38000 - 38000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
AccorHotel

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead a dynamic kitchen team and create high-quality dishes in a fast-paced environment.
  • Company: Join Accor, a global leader in hospitality that values your individuality.
  • Benefits: Enjoy hotel discounts, a birthday day off, and opportunities for growth.
  • Other info: Embrace diversity and inclusion in a supportive workplace.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in the culinary world while exploring limitless possibilities.
  • Qualifications: 3+ years in a senior kitchen role with strong leadership skills.

The predicted salary is between 38000 - 38000 £ per year.

We are far more than a worldwide leader. We welcome you as you are and you can find a job and brand that matches your personality. We support you to grow and learn every day, making sure that work brings purpose to your life, so that during your journey with us, you can continue to explore Accor’s limitless possibilities. By joining Accor, every chapter of your story is yours to write and together we can imagine tomorrow's hospitality.

We’re looking for an experienced, hands‑on Head Chef / Kitchen Manager to lead the kitchen at our open‑plan Wanderlust Bar & Restaurant. This is a fully operational role where you’ll be on the pass, cooking during service, and leading by example. You’ll take full responsibility for the day‑to‑day running of the kitchen, delivering consistently high‑quality food in a fast‑paced hotel environment.

Salary: Up to £38,000 per annum

Hours: Full‑time

Benefits: Hotel discounts, birthday day off, and more

Key Responsibilities:

  • Lead and manage daily kitchen operations while remaining hands‑on
  • Prepare and present food to a consistently high standard
  • Manage, train, and motivate the kitchen team
  • Ensure compliance with food safety, HACCP, and health & safety standards
  • Oversee stock control, ordering, rotas, and waste management
  • Work closely with the Food & Beverage team to ensure smooth service

Requirements:

  • Minimum 3 years’ experience in a senior kitchen role (hotel, pub, or restaurant)
  • Strong leadership skills with a hands‑on approach
  • Solid knowledge of food safety and kitchen operations
  • Flexible to work evenings and weekends

If you’re a confident kitchen leader who enjoys being on the tools while driving standards, we’d love to hear from you.

Our commitment to Diversity & Inclusion: We are an inclusive company and our ambition is to attract, recruit and promote diverse talent.

Head Chef in Crawley employer: AccorHotel

AccorHotel offers an exceptional work environment at Fairmont Cheshire, The Mere, where employees are valued for their contributions to creating a luxurious spa and wellness experience. With a strong emphasis on team culture, exclusive discounts, and comprehensive training opportunities, this role not only promises competitive compensation but also fosters personal and professional growth in the heart of a stunning 5-star retreat.

AccorHotel

Contact Details:

AccorHotel Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Head Chef in Crawley

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 AccorHotel. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!

Reach Out Directly to AccorHotel

Don't be shy about reaching out to AccorHotel 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 Head Chef in Crawley

Leadership Skills
Hands-on Cooking
Food Safety Knowledge
HACCP Compliance
Health & Safety Standards
Kitchen Operations Management
Team Management and Training

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 AccorHotel 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 AccorHotel

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!