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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic kitchen team and create seasonal, flavour-packed menus.
- Company: Join The Cricketers, a vibrant neighbourhood pub in Pontcanna.
- Benefits: Enjoy staff discounts, a pension scheme, and career progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Shape the culinary vision of a new pub and make your mark.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Head Chef or senior kitchen leader is essential.
- Other info: Flexible shifts with a supportive, energetic work environment.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
The Cricketers is recruiting an experienced and inspiring Head Chef to lead our kitchen as we establish this neighbourhood pub in Pontcanna. You will work closely with the General Manager to shape our seasonal, ingredient‑led menu and build a high‑performing kitchen team that delivers consistent, memorable food service.
The Role
As Head Chef, you will take full ownership of the kitchen operation. This is a hands‑on leadership role requiring strong culinary expertise, excellent organisational skills and the ability to adapt to changing service demands. You will set kitchen standards, manage costs, mentor the team and ensure every dish meets our quality expectations.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead, motivate and develop the kitchen team, fostering a collaborative and professional working environment
- Oversee day‑to‑day kitchen operations including food preparation, service coordination and plating to the highest standards
- Design and manage seasonal menus and daily specials with a strong focus on flavour, consistency and local ingredients
- Ensure rigorous attention to detail in presentation, portioning and quality control
- Manage food cost, stock control and supplier relationships to meet budgetary targets
- Maintain compliance with hygiene, health & safety and food safety regulations and promote best practice across the team
- Drive continuous improvement in kitchen processes, efficiency and guest satisfaction
- Adapt to changing service patterns and trade demands, providing practical solutions during busy periods
- Recruit, train and retain kitchen staff, delivering regular feedback and development opportunities
What We’re Looking For
- Proven experience as a Head Chef or senior kitchen leader in a busy, food‑led pub, gastro pub or casual dining environment
- Strong leadership skills with the ability to inspire a team and lead by example
- Demonstrable adaptability – able to respond calmly and effectively to changing service demands
- Excellent attention to detail in food quality, mise en place and kitchen organisation
- A collaborative, team‑player attitude with excellent communication skills
- Good understanding of food cost control, portion management and kitchen profitability
- Level 2 Food Hygiene certificate (or equivalent) desirable
- Passion for modern British cuisine and working with seasonal, local produce
Why Join Us?
- Lead the culinary vision for a new neighbourhood pub in Pontcanna
- Opportunities for career progression within the Croeso Pubs group
- A supportive, energetic working environment focused on quality and community
- Ongoing training and development opportunities
Additional Benefits
- Staff discounts across Croeso Pubs venues
- Company pension scheme
- Company events and team benefits
Essential Information
- Job Type: Permanent, Full Time
- Salary: Competitive, dependent on experience
- Location: Pontcanna, Cardiff
- Schedule Includes: Evening and weekend shifts, Bank holidays and peak trading periods, Flexibility to cover rota as required
Applicants must be able to reliably commute to Pontcanna or relocate prior to starting. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and are committed to a fair and inclusive recruitment process.
How to Apply
If you’re passionate about leading a kitchen, have strong leadership skills and the adaptability and attention to detail to deliver excellent food consistently, we’d love to hear from you. Please submit your CV along with a brief covering note outlining your relevant experience and why you’d be a great fit for The Cricketers.
HEAD CHEF -THE CRICKETERS in Cardiff employer: Croesopubsltd
Contact Detail:
Croesopubsltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land HEAD CHEF -THE CRICKETERS in Cardiff
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the industry, attend local food events, and connect with fellow chefs. You never know who might have a lead on the perfect Head Chef position.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your culinary skills! Consider hosting a pop-up event or a tasting session to showcase your talent. This not only gets your name out there but also gives potential employers a taste of what you can bring to their kitchen.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings; reach out directly to pubs and restaurants you admire. Express your interest in working with them and share your vision for their menu – it could lead to an opportunity before they even advertise!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We make it easy for you to submit your application and stand out from the crowd. Plus, we love seeing passionate chefs who are eager to join our team at The Cricketers.
We think you need these skills to ace HEAD CHEF -THE CRICKETERS in Cardiff
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Tasty CV: Your CV is like the menu for your skills – make it appetising! Highlight your experience in leading kitchens, managing teams, and creating seasonal menus. Keep it clear and concise, just like a well-plated dish.
Spice Up Your Covering Note: In your covering note, let your passion for food shine through! Share why you’re excited about The Cricketers and how your leadership style can inspire the team. Make it personal and engaging, like a chat over a pint.
Show Off Your Culinary Expertise: Don’t be shy about your culinary skills! Mention specific dishes or techniques you excel at, especially those that align with modern British cuisine. This is your chance to showcase what makes you a standout chef!
Apply Through Our Website: We want to hear from you directly! Apply through our website to ensure your application lands in the right hands. It’s the best way to kickstart your journey with us at The Cricketers!
How to prepare for a job interview at Croesopubsltd
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you’re familiar with seasonal ingredients and modern British cuisine. Be ready to discuss how you would design a menu that reflects local produce and flavour. This shows your passion and expertise, which is crucial for a Head Chef role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led a kitchen team in the past. Talk about how you motivate staff, handle conflicts, and foster a collaborative environment. This will demonstrate your ability to inspire and manage a high-performing team.
✨Discuss Cost Control Strategies
Be prepared to talk about your experience with food cost management and stock control. Share specific strategies you’ve implemented to maintain profitability while ensuring quality. This will highlight your business acumen and understanding of kitchen operations.
✨Emphasise Adaptability
In a busy kitchen, things can change rapidly. Share examples of how you’ve adapted to changing service demands or handled peak periods effectively. This will show that you can remain calm under pressure and provide practical solutions when needed.