At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a passionate kitchen team to create high-quality brunch dishes using fresh, seasonal ingredients.
- Company: A beloved family-run bakery café brand in Southwest London.
- Benefits: Enjoy a salary of £40,000 with daytime hours and excellent work-life balance.
- Other info: Join a respected brand known for quality produce and a warm atmosphere.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a growing business while working in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef in a fresh-food setting.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 40000 £ per year.
We are currently recruiting for an experienced Head Chef to lead the kitchen team at this much-loved bakery café brand in Southwest London. This is a fantastic opportunity for a passionate chef to take ownership of a fresh‑food kitchen, delivering high-quality brunch dishes using seasonal ingredients as part of a growing family‑run business. The role could be based across either the Clapham or Wandsworth sites.
The Perks
- Salary of £40,000
- Daytime hours only (7:30 am – 4:00 pm)
- 5 days out of 7, including weekends
- Stable, full‑time position within a growing business
- Opportunity to lead and develop your own kitchen team
- Supportive and collaborative working environment
- Excellent work‑life balance compared to traditional Head Chef roles
- Opportunity to be part of a respected and well‑loved bakery café brand
The Place
This family‑run bakery has grown into a highly regarded and well‑established brand, with multiple sites across Southwest London and a loyal customer following. The menu is centred around fresh, seasonal ingredients, combining Australian and British influences to create an exciting and evolving brunch offering. Alongside the café operation, the business also runs a successful wholesale and events division, catering for both private and corporate clients. The brand has built a strong reputation for quality produce, excellent coffee, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. With continued growth and a people‑focused culture, it offers an exciting opportunity for a Head Chef looking to make a real impact.
The Person
- Previous experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef within a fresh‑food environment
- Strong leadership skills with the ability to train, develop, and motivate a team
- Experience managing kitchen operations, stock control, ordering, and food costs
- Excellent attention to detail and presentation
- A genuine passion for flavour, fresh ingredients, and quality food
- Ability to maintain high standards in a fast‑paced kitchen environment
- Strong organisational and communication skills
- A hands‑on approach with the confidence to lead by example
- Ability to work independently as well as part of a wider management team
- Eligibility to work in the UK
If you are a dependable and food‑focused Head Chef looking for great daytime hours and an exciting opportunity within a growing business, we invite you to apply.
Head Chef - Fresh food Bakery Cafe employer: C&E-Recruitmen
Join a beloved family-run bakery café in Southwest London as a Head Chef, where you will lead a passionate kitchen team dedicated to crafting high-quality brunch dishes with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Enjoy a supportive work culture that prioritises work-life balance, with daytime hours and opportunities for personal and professional growth within a well-established brand known for its excellent produce and warm atmosphere.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef - Fresh food Bakery Cafe
✨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 C&E-Recruitmen. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to C&E-Recruitmen
Don't be shy about reaching out to C&E-Recruitmen 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 - Fresh food Bakery Cafe
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 C&E-Recruitmen 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 C&E-Recruitmen
✨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!
