At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a vibrant kitchen team, create innovative menus, and ensure exceptional food quality.
- Company: Join BPL, a fun and friendly community-focused organisation.
- Benefits: Free membership, staff discounts, and opportunities for career growth.
- Other info: Enjoy a supportive environment with a focus on diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Inspire others while making a positive impact in your community every day.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef in a busy kitchen.
The predicted salary is between 29700 - 36300 £ per year.
Join the People Behind the Smile. Here at BPL we help people feel good. Whether it’s making waves in our aquatics team, helping the people of our local communities to enjoy a workout, or leading the very teams at the forefront of our operations, every member of our BPL family makes a huge difference. If you’re fun, friendly, and love helping others, you’ll fit right in. With free membership to all our sites, opportunities to learn and grow, and a supportive team by your side, you can build a career that you’re proud of while making the people of our communities feel good every day.
We are looking for an experienced, passionate, and inspirational Head Chef to lead our busy kitchen operations. This role requires a hands-on leader with strong culinary expertise, the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment, and a talent for motivating and developing a high-performing team.
Leadership & Team Management:
- Lead, inspire, and motivate the kitchen team to deliver exceptional food quality and service standards.
- Foster a positive, collaborative, and high-energy working environment.
- Recruit, train, and develop kitchen staff, supporting career progression and skill development.
- Lead by example through a hands-on approach during service and preparation.
Kitchen Operations:
- Oversee all day-to-day kitchen operations in a busy, fast-paced environment.
- Ensure smooth and efficient service, maintaining high standards even during peak times.
- Manage stock levels, ordering, and supplier relationships.
- Maintain strict adherence to food safety, hygiene, and health & safety regulations.
Menu Development & Quality Control:
- Create and develop innovative, high-quality menus that meet customer expectations and business goals.
- Ensure consistency, presentation, and quality of all dishes served.
- Monitor food costs, portion control, and minimise waste to maximise profitability.
Performance Standards:
- Set and maintain high culinary and operational standards.
- Continuously review and improve processes to enhance efficiency and customer satisfaction.
- Ensure compliance with company policies and industry regulations.
Key Skills & Experience:
- Proven experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef in a high-volume kitchen.
- Strong leadership skills with the ability to inspire and develop a team.
- Hands-on approach with the ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
- Excellent organisational and time-management skills.
- Creative flair with a passion for quality food and presentation.
- Strong understanding of food safety and hygiene regulations.
- Effective communication and problem-solving skills.
Personal Attributes:
- Inspirational leader who motivates and engages their team.
- Resilient and calm under pressure.
- Highly driven with a commitment to excellence.
- Adaptable and proactive with a “can-do” attitude.
- Passionate about food, people, and continuous improvement.
We recognise and reward great leadership through our capability framework—your skills and impact will help shape your development path and unlock new opportunities. We are good for employees—we welcome your ideas, involve you in key decisions, and celebrate your success through our Feel Good Awards.
Feel good perks – Enjoy free parking, 15% staff discount, and a Free Your Space membership across all BPL sites – including access to the Metrodome Waterpark!
If you're ready to lead, inspire and develop a team in a vibrant, fun-filled environment – apply today.
Hours of Work:
- 40 hours per week
- Monday 09.00 - 17.30
- Tuesday OFF
- Wednesday OFF
- Thursday 09.00 - 17.30
- Friday 09.00 - 17.30
- Saturday 11.00 - 19.30
- Sunday 10.00 - 18.30
N.B subject to business/function requirements.
We’re proud to celebrate diversity and create a workplace where all our team members feel welcome, valued, respected, and supported. We’re committed to making our recruitment process inclusive – so if you do need any adjustments or support at any stage, just let us know and we’ll be happy to help.
Be part of something fun, friendly, and feel good – apply today and join the people behind the smile!
Head Chef – Barnsley Metrodome employer: Barnsley Premier Leisure
BPL is an exceptional employer, renowned for its commitment to employee development and recognition, making it a top choice for Swimming Teachers. With a supportive work culture that values new ideas and teamwork, employees enjoy numerous benefits including free parking and a complimentary membership to our facilities, fostering both personal and professional growth in a vibrant environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef – Barnsley Metrodome
✨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 Barnsley Premier Leisure. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Barnsley Premier Leisure
Don't be shy about reaching out to Barnsley Premier Leisure 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 – Barnsley Metrodome
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 Barnsley Premier Leisure 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 Barnsley Premier Leisure
✨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!
