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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 weekly payments.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team and create unforgettable culinary experiences this summer.
- Qualifications: Previous experience in a professional kitchen and a positive attitude.
- Other info: Flexible hours with potential for additional work in October.
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 CDP and Lead Chefs to join our kitchen team for the Summer Opera Festival, running from May to August 2026. Potential to take on additional hours in October.
Additionally, we are looking for a Chef to run our Company Feeding restaurant, working 8:00am-6:00pm, five days out of seven. 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 essential.
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
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.
CDP and Lead Chefs - Casual (May - August) employer: Compass Group UK
Contact Detail:
Compass Group UK Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land CDP and Lead Chefs - Casual (May - August)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the venue! Before your interview, do a bit of research on Glyndebourne and its culinary offerings. This will not only impress the hiring team but also help you tailor your answers to show how you can contribute to their unique dining experience.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion! When you’re chatting with the team, let your enthusiasm for cooking and hospitality shine through. Share stories about your previous experiences in kitchens and how you’ve tackled challenges – it’s all about showing that can-do attitude they’re looking for!
✨Tip Number 3
Be flexible and ready to adapt! Since the role requires working various hours, including weekends, make sure to express your willingness to jump in wherever needed. Highlighting your flexibility can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We want to see your application come through directly. It shows you’re serious about joining our team at Glyndebourne and makes it easier for us to keep track of your application. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace CDP and Lead Chefs - Casual (May - August)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When you're writing your application, let your love for cooking and hospitality shine through. We want to see your enthusiasm for creating exceptional dining experiences, so don’t hold back!
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role. Highlight your relevant experience in professional kitchens and any specific skills that match what we’re looking for. This helps us see why you’d be a great fit for our team.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read. Use bullet points if it helps, and make sure to proofread for any typos!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Compass Group UK
✨Know Your Culinary Skills
Make sure you can confidently discuss your culinary skills and experiences. Be ready to share specific examples of dishes you've prepared, techniques you've mastered, and how you've contributed to a team in a busy kitchen environment.
✨Show Your Passion for Hospitality
Glyndebourne is all about delivering exceptional dining experiences. During the interview, express your enthusiasm for hospitality and how you can contribute to creating memorable moments for guests. Share any relevant experiences that highlight your commitment to high-quality service.
✨Demonstrate Flexibility and Team Spirit
Since the role requires flexibility and teamwork, be prepared to discuss how you've adapted to changing situations in previous jobs. Highlight your ability to work calmly under pressure and collaborate effectively with others in a fast-paced environment.
✨Research Glyndebourne and Its Culture
Familiarise yourself with Glyndebourne's history, values, and the type of cuisine they offer. This knowledge will not only impress your interviewers but also help you articulate why you want to be part of their team and how you align with their mission.