At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic kitchen team and create delicious dishes that wow our customers.
- Company: Join the UK's largest family-owned garden centre group with a supportive culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy no evening shifts, generous discounts, and a secure role in a growing business.
- Other info: Be part of a family-focused team with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Unleash your creativity in a fast-paced environment and make a real impact.
- Qualifications: Experience in busy kitchens, creativity, and knowledge of food safety regulations.
The predicted salary is between 33696 - 41184 £ per year.
About Us
British Garden Centres is the UK’s largest family-owned garden centre group, with 80 centres nationwide.
Founded by the Stubbs family, the business has grown rapidly through significant expansion and acquisitions, evolving from its first site at Woodthorpe Garden Centre into a national brand.
The group now includes garden centres, restaurants, nurseries, and distribution centres, employing more than 3,500 colleagues across the UK.
Despite its scale, British Garden Centres maintains strong family values, a community focus, and a commitment to providing a welcoming and supportive environment for both customers and employees.
We are looking for a Head Chef to manage the efficient operation of the kitchen this includes helping decide which Chefs special to have available, food ordering, stock control etc., together with ensuring that all kitchen policies and procedures are up to date and staff are compliant with them.
Equally important is the training, motivation, and inspiration of the kitchen team to deliver a first-class culinary service.
If you are looking for a role where you are given the opportunity to take pride in your work, where you can create your own ideas for specials and home baking.
We would love to hear from you. Salary negotiable on experience.
What we offer
- No evening work, split shifts or unsociable hours, year-round business.
- Security of working in a well-established expanding family business & the associated benefits
- Rate of pay negotiable, dependent upon skills and experience.
- Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Day & Easter Sunday
- 50% meal discount at any BGC restaurant & 20% discount at any BGC store, additionally discount rates available for Woodthorpe Leisure Park.
Skills needed
- Experience of working in a busy kitchen.
- Creative at making dishes but also able to work to specs.
- Experience of cooking carvery is an advantage.
- Knowledge of HACCP.
- Able to manage multiple orders.
- Professionalism and reliability.
- Remain calm under pressure.
- Good time management.
- Level 2 basic food hygiene is an advantage.
Duties include
- Controlling and directing the food preparation process.
- Approving and polishing dishes before they reach the customer.
- Managing and working closely with other Chefs of all levels.
- Determining food inventory needs, stocking, and ordering.
- Ultimately responsible for ensuring the kitchen meets all regulations including. sanitary and food safety guidelines.
- Being responsible for health and safety.
- Being responsible for food hygiene practices.
- Team management.
- High level attention to detail.
- Experience of kitchen equipment.
- Awareness of Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (COSHH) and chemical safety.
If you have passion, can work equally well as part of a team or independently, are up for a challenge and thrive in a fast-paced work environment, then we would love you to become part of our work family.
Applications close –Tuesday 25th August 2026
Due to the high volume of applications, if your application is successful, someone from the management team will be in touch with you, thank you.
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Head Chef in Ambleside employer: British Garden Centres
British Garden Centres in Ambleside offers a vibrant work environment where team collaboration and customer satisfaction are at the heart of our operations. As a family-run business, we prioritise employee growth through ongoing training and development opportunities, ensuring that our staff feel valued and empowered. Join us to be part of a community that not only drives sales but also fosters a culture of excellence and care for both our customers and team members.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef in Ambleside
✨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 British Garden Centres. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to British Garden Centres
Don't be shy about reaching out to British Garden Centres 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 Ambleside
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 British Garden Centres 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 British Garden Centres
✨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!
