At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the front-of-house team and create memorable guest experiences.
- Company: Join Ardent Pub Group, a celebrated B-Corp certified hospitality leader.
- Benefits: Enjoy up to 50% dining discount, private healthcare, and industry-leading training.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Be part of a vibrant community-focused pub with a commitment to excellence.
- Qualifications: Experience in hospitality and a passion for outstanding service.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Our Group At Ardent Pub Group, everything starts with people. Whether you're walking into one of our pubs or joining our team, you'll be met with genuine warmth. We build pubs that are rooted in their communities, driven by purpose and built to last. We operate three acclaimed pubs - The George (Fitzrovia), The Cadogan Arms (Chelsea), and The Hound (Chiswick) - each rooted in tradition but full of fresh energy. Named Food-Led Pub Group of the Year at the 2024 R200 Awards, with The Cadogan Arms and The George both featured in the Top 100 Gastropubs list, we've also won the 2026 Best Premium Food Offer at The Publican Awards - cementing our reputation for leading the way in exceptional pub dining. As hospitality's highest-scoring B-Corp certified company, we're committed to doing business the right way - balancing exceptional guest experiences with meaningful social and environmental impact. Our culture is just as important as our performance, which is why we're proud to be recognised in CODE Hospitality's Happiest Places to Work 2025. Our mission is to deliver the gold standard of public houses - where quality food, drink, and service create exceptional experiences. If that resonates, we'd love to hear from you.
Benefits and Culture
- Group & External Partners Dining Discount up to 50%
- Private Healthcare with Vitality after 1 year service (40% off with Virgin Active, PureGym & Nuffield Gyms)
- Employee of the Month Awards
- 1000 Values Award every quarter
- 24/7 GP & EAP Access
- Freshly cooked team meals every day
- Employee Referral Bonus up to 800
- WSET Training
- Industry leading training & onboarding
- Supplier trips
- Twice yearly staff parties
- 1 paid day per year to donate to a charity of your choosing
- CODE Membership
- Hospitality Rewards Enhanced Membership Package
- Wellbeing & EAP Support including 1 on 1 sessions
- LOS, Bday, Maternity, Paternity, Wedding Gifts
- Bespoke coaching and training courses
The Position
As Head Waiter/Waitress at The Cadogan Arms, you will play a key role in shaping the guest experience. You'll deliver a warm, genuine welcome, ensure exceptional service throughout every visit, and lead by example - continually inspiring the front-of-house team to deliver the same high standards.
The ideal Head Waiter / Waitress will have:
- Previous experience as a Senior Waiter, Head Waiter, or Supervisor within a quality pub or restaurant
- A genuine passion for delivering outstanding and memorable guest experiences
- A strong interest in hospitality, with a desire to learn, grow, and develop with the business
- Excellent attention to detail and a warm, personable, and professional approach
A typical working week may look like 5 working days, including 3 single shifts and 2 double shifts. As with most roles in hospitality, shift patterns may vary depending on business needs. If you take pride in great guest service and enjoy leading a team in a welcoming, quality-driven pub, we'd love to hear from you.
Our commitment to Equity, Diversity and Inclusion
At Ardent Pub Group, the greatest welcome isn't just something we give to our guests - it's something we extend to everyone who walks through our doors. Our pubs are built on warmth, character and community, and that only works when the people who make them thrive feel respected, valued and able to be themselves. We believe that a diverse team makes for a better pub: richer ideas, better problem-solving, more creativity and a stronger connection to the communities we serve. Inclusion isn't an initiative for us - it's part of how we operate every day.
Head Waiter/Waitress - London employer: Ardent Pub Group
At Ardent Pub Group, we pride ourselves on being a people-first organisation that fosters a warm and inclusive work environment. As a Head Waiter/Waitress at The Cadogan Arms in Chelsea, you'll enjoy exceptional benefits such as private healthcare, generous dining discounts, and industry-leading training opportunities, all while contributing to our mission of delivering outstanding guest experiences in a community-focused pub. Recognised as one of the happiest places to work in hospitality, we are committed to your growth and well-being, making us an excellent employer for those passionate about quality service and teamwork.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Waiter/Waitress - London
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the pub scene in London! Visit some of the pubs under Ardent Pub Group, like The Cadogan Arms or The George, and soak up the atmosphere. This will not only give you a feel for their vibe but also help you chat about it during your interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former staff on social media platforms. They can provide insider tips on what it's really like to work there and might even put in a good word for you!
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your passion for hospitality! When you get the chance to meet the team or during your interview, share your experiences and what excites you about delivering exceptional guest service. Let your enthusiasm shine through!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply directly through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of the Ardent family. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace Head Waiter/Waitress - London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Personality:When you're writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see the real you, so don’t be afraid to share your passion for hospitality and what makes you tick.
Tailor Your Experience:Make sure to highlight your relevant experience as a Senior Waiter or Head Waiter. We love seeing how your past roles have prepared you for this position, so be specific about your achievements and skills!
Keep It Professional Yet Warm:While we want to see your personality, remember to keep it professional. Use a friendly tone but ensure your application is polished and free of typos. First impressions matter!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at The Cadogan Arms!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ardent Pub Group
✨Know the Company Inside Out
Before your interview, take some time to research Ardent Pub Group. Familiarise yourself with their values, mission, and the specific pubs they operate. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you align your answers with their culture.
✨Showcase Your Passion for Hospitality
As a Head Waiter/Waitress, your passion for delivering exceptional guest experiences is crucial. Be prepared to share specific examples from your previous roles where you went above and beyond to create memorable moments for guests.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
Since this role involves leading a team, think of instances where you've successfully motivated or trained others. Highlight your ability to inspire your colleagues to maintain high standards of service, as this aligns perfectly with what they’re looking for.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t shy away from asking questions. Inquire about their approach to staff development or how they maintain their commitment to community and sustainability. This shows that you’re not just interested in the job, but also in being part of their mission.
