At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead brewery operations, manage production schedules, and develop innovative beer recipes.
- Company: Join Big Smoke Brew Co, an award-winning independent craft brewery in Surrey.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career development, and a vibrant work culture in the hospitality sector.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities for creativity and innovation in brewing.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of brewing modern beers and mentor a passionate team.
- Qualifications: Strong brewing knowledge, leadership skills, and experience in a commercial craft brewery.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Big Smoke Brew Co is an independent craft brewery and pub company based in Esher, Surrey, recognized for brewing modern, approachable, and award-winning beers. Since 2014, the brewery has focused on flavour, quality, and consistency, recently upgrading its facilities to increase annual capacity to over 4 million pints. In addition to brewing operations, the company runs a growing estate of 7 pubs and 5 branded venues in London airports, offering a dynamic hospitality environment. Big Smoke Brew Co’s success is built on a strong internal culture and a genuine commitment to training and developing team members. The company aims to provide an environment where people can build rewarding careers in the beer and hospitality sector.
The Head Brewer is a full-time, on-site role based in the London Area, United Kingdom, responsible for overseeing all aspects of brewery operations. Day-to-day tasks include planning and managing production schedules, supervising brewing, cellaring, packaging, and ensuring all beer meets strict quality and consistency standards. The role involves developing and refining recipes, managing raw material procurement, and monitoring inventory levels to support both the brewery and pub estate. The Head Brewer will lead and mentor the brewing team, promote safe working practices, and maintain compliance with health, safety, and food hygiene regulations. Additional responsibilities include collaborating with management on new product development, supporting brewery tours or events, and contributing technical input to marketing and sales initiatives.
Qualifications
- Strong technical brewing knowledge, including recipe formulation, fermentation management, and quality control methods.
- Experience with brewery operations such as production planning, process optimization, and equipment maintenance.
- Leadership skills to supervise, train, and develop brewing and cellaring team members in a collaborative environment.
- Understanding of health, safety, and food hygiene regulations relevant to brewing and packaging.
- Ability to manage inventory, raw materials, and supplier relationships efficiently.
- Good communication skills to work closely with operations, sales, and marketing teams and represent the brewery when needed.
- Previous experience in a commercial craft brewery at a senior or lead brewer level.
- Relevant brewing qualifications (e.g., IBD, brewing science degree, or equivalent practical experience) are highly beneficial.
- Comfort working in a hands-on, fast-paced production environment, including occasional evening or weekend work when required.
- Passion for modern, flavour-forward beer and interest in contributing to new product development and innovation.
Head Brewer in Slough employer: Big Smoke Brew Co Ltd
Big Smoke Brew Co is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that fosters creativity and collaboration in the heart of Esher, Surrey. With a strong commitment to employee development and a focus on quality and innovation, team members have ample opportunities for growth within the craft brewing and hospitality sectors. The company’s dynamic environment, coupled with its dedication to producing award-winning beers, makes it an ideal place for passionate individuals looking to build a rewarding career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Brewer in Slough
✨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 Big Smoke Brew Co Ltd. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Big Smoke Brew Co Ltd
Don't be shy about reaching out to Big Smoke Brew Co Ltd 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 Brewer in Slough
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 Big Smoke Brew Co Ltd 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 Big Smoke Brew Co Ltd
✨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!
