At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a passionate kitchen team and create unique seasonal menus.
- Company: Join the iconic Duke of Wellington pub on Portobello Road.
- Benefits: Enjoy free meals, discounts, and access to culinary masterclasses.
- Other info: 28 days holiday and opportunities for career development in hospitality.
- Why this job: Showcase your creativity and make a real impact in a vibrant pub environment.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Head Chef or Sous Chef with strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 34650 - 42350 £ per year.
About us:
Hi, I'm Dan, and I'm proud to run the incredible 'Duke of Wellington' on the world-famous Portobello Road! Our pub features in the opening scenes of the 1999 classic 'Notting Hill', but we established ourselves as an iconic part of the neighbourhood during its construction back in 1854. The pub still retains some of her original features including a 360° bar, where tourists from around the world flock from the moment we open our doors, and our fireplaces where you might find Notting Hill locals and the occasional celebrity relaxing with a drink on a winter's evening.
In the kitchen, our team of hard-working & efficient chefs deliver a fully bespoke menu of freshly prepared, premium meals to visitors, regulars and neighbours alike, as well as stunning buffets and canapes for our function guests. Geo, Jan, Mike & Scott lead our Front of House team and can offer all the skills needed to deliver great service no matter how busy we get. On top of all of this, as part of Young's we are keen to develop our people and help them find the next step if they are keen for a career in hospitality.
Being a Head Chef at Young's:
We believe every pub should be different. This means that you'll be writing your own recipes that match the food vision of your business using fresh seasonal ingredients. The food vision could be all about showcasing local produce, country pub classics, seafood, small plates and sharers, dry-aged meat - each pub is different and it's up to you as head chef to put your own creative stamp on that vision. We work with fresh, seasonal produce, so the menu should constantly evolve to showcase these fantastic ingredients when they are at their best.
What we offer our Head Chefs:
- Full autonomy to create your own menus and specials
- Access to our Apprenticeship Scheme and Development Programmes
- Share of service charge from serviced tables in our dining areas
- Access to regular culinary masterclasses covering topics such as Game, Butchery and Shellfish
- Access to inspirational food trips with our top quality suppliers
- Regular Chef Forums with other Head Chefs to inspire and develop
- Free meals
- 20% discount in all Young's Pubs and 30% discount on overnight stays in our Pubs with Rooms
- Share save Scheme
- Enhanced Company Pension Scheme
- 28 Days Holiday per year
What we look for in a Head Chef:
- Someone that can inspire a team, to bring out the potential and lead by example whilst being able to develop, cost and produce fresh seasonal menus for the variety of revenue streams within the business.
- Experience championing excellent service through quality food either as a Head Chef or in the position of Sous Chef
- A passion for leading and developing a team
- An active hands-on team player with excellent communication skills
- Responsible and able to manage the kitchen staff rota, training and all health and safety effectively at all times
- Ability to demonstrate creativity and design and deliver new dishes for our menus and daily specials
- Great planning and organisational skills, necessary to maintain effective controls with regard to both GP and labour
- A pro-active approach to driving sales and delivering growth, through engagement with both kitchen and front of house teams
Head Chef employer: Duke of Wellington
At the Duke of Wellington, we pride ourselves on being more than just a pub; we are a vibrant part of the Notting Hill community with a rich history and a welcoming atmosphere. Our team members enjoy a supportive work culture that fosters personal growth through training and development opportunities, alongside fantastic benefits like free meals, weekly pay, and generous discounts. Join us to be part of a passionate team where every day brings the chance to connect with locals and visitors alike in a truly iconic setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef
✨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 Duke of Wellington. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Duke of Wellington
Don't be shy about reaching out to Duke of Wellington 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
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 Duke of Wellington 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 Duke of Wellington
✨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!
