At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic kitchen team and create exceptional dishes in a luxury setting.
- Company: Beaverbrook, a stunning collection of luxury hotels in Surrey and London.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, discounts, personal development support, and 28 days annual leave.
- Other info: Flexible working hours and excellent opportunities for career growth.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team and elevate your culinary career in a beautiful environment.
- Qualifications: Proven experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef with strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 33500 £ per year.
Head Chef - Leatherhead Beaverbrook is a carefully curated collection of two luxury hotels; our country Estate nestled within the beautiful Surrey Hills and our elegant Town House in the heart of central London.
Set across 400 acres of stunning, privately owned countryside, the Estate offers a unique blend of heritage, luxury and exceptional hospitality.
The Role We are looking for an experienced and passionate Head Chef to join our dynamic kitchen team within our Garden House Restaurant.
Working closely with the Executive Culinary & Beverage Director, you will play a key role in delivering exceptional food quality, leading the kitchen team, and ensuring the highest standards of food safety, consistency, and service.
This is a senior Head of Department role within the culinary team, supervising all team members and working closely with the wider Food & Beverage operation.
Key Responsibilities Train, mentor, and develop junior members of the team.
Lead and motivate the kitchen team during service.
Ensure all dishes are prepared and presented to the highest standards.
Manage food quality, presentation, portion control, ordering, stock levels and food costs.
Responsible for menu planning/changes, recipe development and seasonal specials.
Ensure compliance with food hygiene, HACCP, and health & safety regulations Working alongside the HR team with recruitment, training, rotas, payroll-related records, attendance and team performance Requirements Proven experience as a Head Chef or experienced Senior Sous Chef.
Strong leadership and team management skills.
Excellent knowledge of food preparation techniques and kitchen operations.
Sound understanding of food safety and hygiene regulations.
Experience of handling budgets and understanding P&L data.
Ability to perform well under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
Excellent organisational and communication skills.
Passion for fresh, high-quality food and continuous improvement.
Salary: Competitive salary, plus tronc Shift Pattern 45 hours per week, the ideal candidate will be flexible in working any 5 days out of 7.
Benefits In addition to a competitive reward, we are committed to investing heavily in your development and helping you grow a long-term career with Beaverbrook.
As a member of our team, you can expect to receive: Competitive salary Discounts on retail, gym memberships, cinema tickets and many more with Hospitality Rewards App Personal development support Wide range of recognised qualifications and development opportunities Discounted rates on Food & Beverage 28 days annual leave (including Bank Holidays), rising by 1 day each year for 5 years Pension Life Insurance Sick Pay Long Service Awards Cycle to work scheme Earn up to 600 through our recommend a friend scheme Uniforms Free parking And other local benefits
Locations
Head Chef in Leatherhead, Surrey employer: Beaverbrook
Beaverbrook is an exceptional employer that prioritises a vibrant work culture and the well-being of its staff. Located in a stunning setting, we offer our Night Porters not only competitive benefits but also opportunities for personal and professional growth within the hospitality industry. Join us to be part of a team that values your contributions and fosters a supportive environment where you can thrive.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef in Leatherhead, Surrey
✨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 Beaverbrook. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Beaverbrook
Don't be shy about reaching out to Beaverbrook 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 in Leatherhead, Surrey
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 Beaverbrook 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 Beaverbrook
✨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!
