At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the kitchen, create seasonal menus, and build a high-performing team.
- Company: Join Acorn Pubs, part of Brunning & Price, known for exceptional hospitality.
- Benefits: Up to £55k salary, free meals, discounts, pension, and wellbeing support.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities for career growth and development.
- Why this job: Shape the culinary future of a newly refurbished pub and make your mark.
- Qualifications: Experience as a head chef or senior sous chef in a busy kitchen.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 55000 £ per year.
The Akeman Inn is about to begin an exciting new chapter.
As part of a major investment programme across the Acorn Pubs estate, The Akeman Inn will undergo a significant refurbishment and relaunch, emerging almost as a brand-new pub.
This is a unique opportunity for an ambitious and talented
Head Chef to take the lead from the very beginning and help shape the culinary future of this beautiful business.
Acorn Pubs is part of Brunning & Price, one of the UK's most respected pub operators, renowned for creating exceptional pubs with character, quality food and drink, and outstanding hospitality.
The Akeman Inn enjoys a fantastic location, a stunning setting, and enormous untapped potential.
With substantial investment being made in the site, we're looking for a Head Chef who can bring creativity, leadership and passion to the kitchen, build and develop a high-performing team, and establish a food offering that makes the pub a destination venue from day one of the relaunch.
This isn't simply a role leading an existing kitchen—it's an opportunity to create something special.
You'll have the chance to influence menus, champion fresh, seasonal ingredients, develop your team, and play a key role in building the reputation and success of the business.
If you're looking for more than just your next Head Chef role—and want the opportunity to leave your mark on an exceptional pub from the very start, we'd love to hear from you.
And there's plenty more in it for you
- Package up to £55k including TRONC and profit share
- The Extras
- We know you work hard so we feed you well - free meals on shift, choose from the menu!
- 30% discount for you, your friends and family across Acorn Pubs, Brunning & Price and our group including wagamama and selected airport pubs and restaurants.
- It’s never too early to start saving for the future with a NEST pension.
- Protection for your family with life assurance.
- Great discounts via Perks on Tap saving you money on everyday purchases and more.
- Cycle to work scheme.
- Electric vehicle scheme.
- £1,000 referral bonus for introducing new Managers or Chefs to the company.
- Wagestream - use flexible pay to choose when to get paid.
Your Wellbeing – it’s important to us!
- Free 24-hour confidential legal and information helpline for you and your family.
- Bespoke wellbeing support offering free counselling for all crew.
- Access to health checks and virtual GP appointments.
- Discounted gym membership.
- Plenty of social get togethers – it’s not all work and no play.
- Recognition platform with regular thankyous.
We want you to grow with us!
- Superb internal and external development programmes to support your progress.
- Advanced Leadership Skills course enhancing self-awareness and soft skills.
- Regular days out and events around fresh seasonal produce.
- We encourage movement between our pubs so you can have a long-term career with us.
About you...
Our kitchens are dynamic, fast paced, and high volume so you will have experience of being a head chef, chef manager, kitchen manager or senior sous chef in a busy, premium fresh food environment.
You will be responsible for the food culture within your pub, working closely with the pub manager to drive the business forward, helping to formulate seasonal menus with our Executive Chefs.
We are looking for a confident leader who will nurture their team and create an inclusive and supportive environment.
You’ll also need excellent business acumen to manage a well-run kitchen, keeping on top of your stock, GPs and labour controls.
About Acorn Pubs...
- A collection of 10 pubs, 6 of which have bedrooms.
- Our wider company, Brunning and Price, includes 79 pubs across the country.
- A company with heart, where individuality, personality and diversity are encouraged.
- A company committed to reducing our carbon footprint, working sustainably and supporting our local communities.
- @brunningandpricecareers
Are you ready to be part of a family where you can genuinely contribute to the food culture? Then make your next career move a Head Chef position with us.
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Head Chef employer: Acorn Pubs
Acorn Pubs is an excellent employer, offering a vibrant kitchen environment where creativity thrives and culinary skills are honed. With competitive pay, free meals during shifts, and a strong focus on health and wellness, employees enjoy a supportive work culture that encourages growth and development. Located in the charming town of Witney, this role provides unique opportunities to engage with a passionate team dedicated to delivering exceptional dining experiences.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef
✨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 Acorn Pubs. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Acorn Pubs
Don't be shy about reaching out to Acorn Pubs 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
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 Acorn Pubs 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 Acorn Pubs
✨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!
