At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the kitchen and create exciting seasonal menus at a beloved pub.
- Company: Join Acorn Pubs, part of Brunning & Price, known for exceptional hospitality.
- Benefits: Up to £50k salary, free meals, discounts, and wellbeing support.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Shape the future of The Blue Boar and make your culinary mark.
- Qualifications: Experience as a head chef or senior sous chef in a busy kitchen.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 40000 £ per year.
A rare opportunity to relaunch and lead the kitchen of one of Witney's most iconic pubs. The Blue Boar is about to begin an exciting new chapter as part of a major investment programme across the Acorn Pubs estate. The pub will soon close for a significant refurbishment before reopening with a fresh new look and renewed ambition.
This is a unique opportunity for an ambitious and talented Head Chef to join the business ahead of its relaunch and play a leading role in shaping its future success. 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.
Located in the heart of Witney, The Blue Boar has long been a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. Following a substantial investment, the pub will reopen with an enhanced guest experience and an exciting opportunity to establish a food offering that reflects the quality and standards for which Acorn Pubs is known.
We're looking for a Head Chef who can bring energy, creativity and strong leadership to the kitchen. Someone who is passionate about fresh, seasonal food, takes pride in developing talented teams, and is excited by the prospect of building something special from the ground up. This isn't simply a role running an established kitchen - it's an opportunity to influence menus, shape kitchen culture, recruit and develop your brigade, and help create a destination dining experience from day one of the relaunch.
For a chef who thrives on ownership, enjoys being part of a significant project, and wants to make their mark on a much-loved pub, this is an exceptional opportunity.
If you're looking for more than just your next Head Chef role - and want to be part of the exciting future of The Blue Boar - we'd love to hear from you.
Our Offer Package:
- Up to £50k including TRONC and profit share
The Extras:
- 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.
- NEST pension.
- Life assurance.
- Great discounts via Perks on Tap.
- 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.
- 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.
- Recognition platform with regular thank yous.
- 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.
- Encouragement of movement between our pubs for a long-term career.
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.
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. Apply now!
Head Chef - Witney employer: Acorn Pubs
Acorn Pubs, part of Brunning & Price, offers an exceptional opportunity for a Head Chef at The Blue Boar in Witney, where you can lead the kitchen of a beloved pub undergoing a significant transformation. With a strong focus on fresh, seasonal food and a commitment to employee wellbeing, you'll enjoy benefits such as free meals, discounts across the group, and extensive development programmes to support your career growth. Join a dynamic team that values creativity, leadership, and community engagement, making this an ideal workplace for those looking to make a meaningful impact.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef - Witney
✨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 - Witney
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!
