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- Tasks: Prepare and cook high-quality dishes for an iconic summer festival.
- Company: Glyndebourne Opera House, a renowned cultural venue in Sussex.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, free shuttle bus, onsite parking, and training provided.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team and create unforgettable dining experiences this summer.
- Qualifications: Energetic, creative individuals; previous kitchen experience is a plus but not required.
- Other info: Flexible hours, work with award-winning chefs, and enjoy a vibrant culinary environment.
The predicted salary is between 13 - 16 £ per hour.
Glyndebourne Opera House, set in the beautiful Sussex countryside, is one of the world’s most iconic cultural venues, renowned for its opera, elegant dining, and famous summer picnics. Dining at Glyndebourne delivers high-quality hospitality across restaurants, bars, private dining spaces and outdoor catering. We are recruiting Chefs of all grades to join our kitchen team for the Summer Opera Festival, running from May to August 2026.
As a chef at Glyndebourne, you will work closely with our Area Chef Steve Groves, Winner of MasterChef: The Professionals and National Chef of the Year, and Executive Head Chef Lee Redman, recently awarded Compass Senior Chef of the Year, along with their senior team, to create an exceptional dining experience worthy of this iconic venue.
This is a casual position, with hours varying week to week based on business needs. During the Festival we operate seven days a week, so flexibility is essential, including weekend work. The role includes preparing and cooking high-quality dishes, supporting menu delivery across multiple outlets, maintaining excellent standards of hygiene and food safety, and working closely with the wider kitchen and front‑of‑house teams to ensure a seamless guest experience. Duties will be matched to your skills, experience, and level of expertise.
We are looking for passionate, hardworking individuals with energy, creativity, and a positive, can‑do attitude. You will be able to work calmly under pressure, collaborate effectively in a team, and take pride in delivering exceptional culinary experiences. Previous experience in a professional kitchen is advantageous but not essential, as training will be provided.
What We Offer
- Competitive pay depending on grade and experience
- Weekly paid tronc
- Free shuttle bus from Lewes Station
- Free onsite parking
- The opportunity to work in Chef Steve Groves’ restaurant and across Glyndebourne’s kitchens at one of the UK’s most iconic cultural venues
Interviews will be held in February 2026. If your application is successful, we will be in touch at the beginning of February 2026 to invite you to interview.
Part of Compass Group UK & Ireland, Restaurant Associates is proud to be an inclusive employer, committed to supporting and developing our people. Apply today to join our kitchen team and be part of an unforgettable summer at Glyndebourne.
Chef of all Grades - Casual (May - August) in Forest Row employer: Compass Group UK & Ireland
Contact Detail:
Compass Group UK & Ireland Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chef of all Grades - Casual (May - August) in Forest Row
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the venue! Familiarise yourself with Glyndebourne's dining style and culinary offerings. This will help you stand out during interviews and show your genuine interest in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former staff on social media or at local events. They can provide insider tips and might even put in a good word for you when it comes to hiring.
✨Tip Number 3
Be flexible and ready to adapt! Since the role requires weekend work and varying hours, showing that you're open to different shifts can make you a more attractive candidate.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Glyndebourne kitchen team!
We think you need these skills to ace Chef of all Grades - Casual (May - August) in Forest Row
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your love for cooking shine through! Share why you’re excited about the opportunity at Glyndebourne and how you can contribute to creating exceptional dining experiences.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience, even if it’s not extensive. Focus on any culinary skills or teamwork experiences that align with the role. We want to see what makes you a great fit for our kitchen team!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that’s easy to read and gets straight to the good stuff!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at Glyndebourne.
How to prepare for a job interview at Compass Group UK & Ireland
✨Know Your Culinary Skills
Before the interview, brush up on your culinary skills and be ready to discuss your experience in the kitchen. Think about specific dishes you've prepared and any techniques you're particularly proud of. This will show your passion for cooking and your readiness to contribute to Glyndebourne's high standards.
✨Research Glyndebourne
Familiarise yourself with Glyndebourne Opera House and its dining offerings. Understanding their commitment to quality and the unique dining experiences they provide will help you align your answers with their values during the interview. Plus, it shows genuine interest!
✨Show Your Team Spirit
Since teamwork is crucial in a busy kitchen, be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully collaborated with others in past roles. Highlight your ability to work under pressure and maintain a positive attitude, as this is key to thriving in a fast-paced environment like Glyndebourne.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t hesitate to ask questions about the team dynamics or the types of dishes you'll be working on. This not only demonstrates your enthusiasm but also gives you insight into what it’s like to work at Glyndebourne, helping you decide if it's the right fit for you.
