At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic kitchen, creating exceptional dining experiences and pushing culinary boundaries.
- Company: 14forty, part of Compass Group, focused on enhancing workplace environments.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible hours, mentoring, and opportunities for recognised qualifications.
- Other info: Exciting career growth opportunities in a fast-paced, innovative setting.
- Why this job: Join a creative culinary team and make a real impact in a vibrant environment.
- Qualifications: Experienced Head Chef with a passion for food and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 35000 £ per year.
Location: Stowmarket
Salary: Up to £35,000 per annum, depending on experience
Working Pattern: Monday to Friday, 7am to 3:30pm, however as this is a 7 day operation flexibility to working hours will be required to review all service patterns.
14forty is a specialist facilities management business within Compass Group UK & Ireland, delivering integrated workplace services across the UK. Bringing together catering, cleaning, security and support services under one contract. 14forty creates efficient, high‑performing environments that enhance the employee experience and allow clients to focus on their core business. With a strong focus on service excellence, innovation and sustainability, the business is committed to making workplaces better, every day.
About the role
Are you ready to take the lead in a dynamic culinary environment where creativity, excellence, and innovation are always on the menu? We're on the hunt for a visionary Head Chef who lives and breathes food, someone who’s not just skilled in the kitchen but dedicated to creating exceptional dining experiences. This is more than just a cooking role; it’s an opportunity to lead, inspire, and deliver unforgettable food programmes that push boundaries and excite every palate. If you're driven to constantly raise the bar, we want to hear from you.
This is a high-visibility role where you’ll shape the food offer providing breakfast, daytime snack and an evening/night’s service across the site. You will take responsibility for ensuring the site runs efficiently while maintaining consistently high standards.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead your kitchen like a well‑seasoned pro, ensuring every plate tells a story of flavour, consistency, and character.
- Create a kitchen culture where high standards come naturally and pushing culinary boundaries is part of the daily rhythm.
- Stay sharp on food trends and forward‑thinking techniques – you know what’s next before it hits the menu.
- Build strong relationships with clients and stakeholders – you speak the language of food and business.
- Deliver excellence beyond the plate by hitting key targets in quality, safety, sustainability, and cost control.
What you’ll bring to the table
- A seasoned Head Chef ready to take the lead in a flavour‑driven environment.
- A true chef at heart, committed to delivering exceptional food experiences while upholding company standards and exceeding client expectations.
- Confident balancing flavour and finance. Skilled in food costing, supplier relationships, and smart kitchen economics.
- Calm, focused, and fast on your feet, you thrive in a busy service and never compromise on quality under pressure.
Hungry for more? We also offer exciting culinary pathways for team members who want to level up. With real-time mentoring, hands‑on experience, and the chance to earn recognised qualifications, it’s a delicious way to grow your skills while doing what you love.
If you’re a driven and passionate chef eager to make an impact, we’d love to hear from you! Apply today and take the next step in your culinary career.
Head Chef - Stowmarket employer: Chartwells Independent
At 14forty, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a vibrant and innovative work culture. As a Head Chef in Stowmarket, you will not only lead a talented kitchen team but also enjoy a supportive environment that encourages creativity and professional growth. With competitive salary packages, flexible working hours, and opportunities for culinary advancement, we are dedicated to making your career as rewarding as the dining experiences you create.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef - Stowmarket
✨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 Chartwells Independent. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Chartwells Independent
Don't be shy about reaching out to Chartwells Independent 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 - Stowmarket
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 Chartwells Independent 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 Chartwells Independent
✨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!
