At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a talented kitchen team and create exciting, high-quality dishes.
- Company: Join The Foundry Bell, a celebrated pub in Wokingham known for its exceptional dining experience.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, bonus, service charge, and live-in options available.
- Other info: Enjoy a vibrant work environment with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Be the creative force behind a beloved pub and inspire your team to greatness.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership skills and a passion for innovative cooking.
Salary for Advertising: £45,000 - £50,000 + Bonus + Service Charge
Company Description
Lead the kitchen of one of Wokingham’s most celebrated neighbourhood pubs. At The Foundry Bell, we believe a great pub is built on more than just great food — it’s built on experiences that bring people together. Set in the heart of Wokingham, The Foundry Bell has become a destination for guests looking for quality seasonal dining, exceptional drinks, and genuine hospitality. From relaxed lunches and intimate dinners to celebrations in our private Foundry Room and long summer evenings on our beautiful terrace, every visit is designed to feel special.
Our food is at the centre of everything we do. We champion fresh, seasonal ingredients and create menus that balance elevated pub favourites with modern, exciting dishes. Alongside our carefully curated drinks offering, welcoming spaces, and strong community reputation, we’ve created a pub that feels familiar yet just a little bit extraordinary.
We’re now looking for an ambitious and passionate Head Chef to take the lead of our kitchen operation and continue building on the success of this much-loved venue.
Job Description
The Role
As Head Chef, you’ll have full ownership of the kitchen, leading a talented team and driving the standards that define The Foundry Bell. You’ll bring creativity, passion, and strong leadership to the role, ensuring our food offering remains exciting, consistent, and commercially successful. Working closely with the General Manager and wider leadership team, you’ll play a key role in shaping the guest experience, developing your team, and delivering exceptional results. This is a role for a chef who enjoys the balance of creativity and commercial responsibility — someone who can inspire a team, manage a successful kitchen operation, and take pride in every plate that leaves the pass.
Qualifications
What you’ll be responsible for
- Creating and maintaining a high-quality food offer that reflects our premium pub identity
- Leading, developing, and inspiring the kitchen team to achieve their full potential
- Delivering exceptional standards across every service
- Managing food costs, GP performance, ordering, and stock control
- Ensuring excellent kitchen organisation and operational efficiency
- Building strong relationships between FOH and BOH, creating a culture of teamwork and communication
- Maintaining the highest standards of food safety, hygiene, and compliance, including EHO and NSF requirements
- Coaching and developing your team through clear expectations, feedback, and support
Head Chef - Live in Available in Wokingham employer: Crafted Pubs - BRA_301
Crafted Pubs is an exceptional employer that values individuality and warmth, offering a vibrant work culture where team members can thrive. As a Team Leader, you'll benefit from competitive salaries, extensive training opportunities, and generous discounts at our pubs and hotels, all while being part of a supportive environment that prioritises your well-being and career growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef - Live in Available in Wokingham
✨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 Crafted Pubs - BRA_301. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Crafted Pubs - BRA_301
Don't be shy about reaching out to Crafted Pubs - BRA_301 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 - Live in Available in Wokingham
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 Crafted Pubs - BRA_301 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 Crafted Pubs - BRA_301
✨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!
