At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a creative kitchen team and craft seasonal menus that wow our guests.
- Company: Join Fern, part of the award-winning Bart & Taylor group in East Croydon.
- Benefits: Earn up to £50,000, enjoy free meals, discounts, and 28 days' holiday.
- Other info: Great career progression and ongoing training in a vibrant environment.
- Why this job: Make your mark with fresh, seasonal dishes and inspire a passionate team.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership skills and a love for innovative, seasonal cuisine.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 50000 £ per year.
Fern is a stylish, premium restaurant built around fresh, seasonal sharing plates — open 7 days a week for lunch, dinner, Saturday brunch and a Sunday roast. We’re part of Bart & Taylor, a growing group of award-winning boutique bars and restaurants across London and the North. We’re on the hunt for a driven, creative Head Chef to lead our kitchen. You’ll inspire and develop your team, take pride in seasonal menus, and keep standards high while delivering food that makes people talk.
Why join us:
- Up to £50,000 per annum inc Service Charge
- Free meals on shift
- Discounts on food and drinks for you and your mates
- 28 days’ holiday pro rata
- Freedom to develop menus and real influence on the kitchen
- Ongoing training and clear career progression
- 30 seconds from East Croydon Station
Responsibilities:
- Lead, motivate and develop the kitchen team
- Full accountability for menu creation within company guidelines
- Manage stock, inventory and reduce wastage
- Control labour costs in line with company guidelines
- Ensure kitchen cleanliness, organisation, and food safety standards are always met
Qualifications & Requirements:
- Natural leader who inspires confidence in their team
- Passion for fresh, seasonal food and creative menus
- Experience: Required
- Languages: Advanced English
- Employment: Full‑time
- Schedule: 5 days out of 7
- Salary: £48,000 – £50,000 yearly
- Benefits: Incl Service Charge
Head Chef employer: Bart & Taylor
At Fern, part of the Bart & Taylor group, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that values creativity and teamwork. Located just 30 seconds from East Croydon Station, we offer a vibrant work culture with free meals on shift, generous discounts, and 28 days of holiday pro rata, alongside ongoing training and clear career progression opportunities. Join us to lead a passionate kitchen team and make your mark with seasonal menus in a stylish, award-winning restaurant environment.
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 Bart & Taylor. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Bart & Taylor
Don't be shy about reaching out to Bart & Taylor 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 Bart & Taylor 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 Bart & Taylor
✨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!
