At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the kitchen team, ensuring exceptional food quality and customer experience.
- Company: Join Fenwick, a historic family-owned department store with a collaborative spirit.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, up to 25% discount, 28 days annual leave, and birthday off.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic environment with opportunities for growth and innovation.
- Why this job: Make your mark in a vibrant kitchen and inspire a passionate team.
- Qualifications: Proven experience as Head Chef, excellent culinary skills, and leadership abilities.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 36000 £ per year.
Working Week: 45 hours
Salary: £36,000 per annum, plus tronc - added tronc brings this to a potential gross annual earning of approximately £43,000.
Are you a talented and experienced Head Chef with a passion for delivering exceptional food and hospitality? Do you have a proven track record of leading and developing kitchen teams in a fast-paced environment? If you take pride in high standards, inspire those around you, and thrive on creating outstanding dining experiences, we'd love to hear from you.
We're looking for a Head Chef to lead the kitchen team at Three Restaurant in our Brent Cross store.
When you join Fenwick, you'll receive:
- Up to 25% discount in all Fenwick stores and fenwick.co.uk.
- 28 days annual leave, inclusive of Bank Holidays, increasing by 1 day each year to a maximum of 33 days (pro rata for part time colleagues).
- Your birthday off as an additional day annual leave - this can be taken any day within your birth month.
- WeCare - 24/7 GP, wellbeing advice & support service.
- You will also be entitled to join the tronc system which is operated and controlled independently.
About the role
This is an exciting opportunity to take ownership of our Three Restaurant kitchen operation at Brent Cross. As Head Chef, you will lead from the front, combining strong leadership with a hands-on approach to ensure exceptional food quality, operational excellence, and a first-class customer experience. You will play a key role in developing and delivering food strategies, maintaining consistently high standards, and driving the performance of the kitchen team. You'll be responsible for coaching and developing your chefs, setting clear objectives, and creating an environment where individuals can thrive and deliver their best work. Working closely with the wider restaurant leadership team, you'll ensure operational, food safety, and service standards are consistently achieved while continuing to evolve and enhance the restaurant offer.
What we are looking for in a candidate...
- A proven record in an Executive Chef/Head Chef Position within a full-service restaurant setting - essential.
- A proven record of working H&S, Operations and HACCP knowledge gained within a hospitality business.
- Excellent culinary skills and product knowledge as well as awareness of food trends.
- A track record of training and developing a senior team to achieve great results.
- Exceptional diligence and meticulous ways of working.
- Solution-focused and the ability to thrive in a challenging environment.
- Enthusiastic about food with the aptitude to learn and adapt to new and diverse ways of working.
About Fenwick
Fenwick is rich with heritage and history and have been style pioneers since 1882 when our first store opened. We know luxury and are proud to remain the largest independent, family-owned group of department stores within the UK. We are on an exciting journey to exceed our customers' expectations and we are always on the lookout for new talent to join us. Our collaborative spirit unites a workforce of over 2,000 individuals across our stores, as well as in our support functions, encompassing Digital, Buying & Merchandising, IT, Finance, People, Customer Service teams, and our cherished restaurants and distribution centres. In 2023 we launched our 'Quiet No More' campaign, enhancing our presence on the UK high street as well as our eCommerce website going from strength to strength. Together, we form the beating heart of Fenwick, driving forward our vision for excellence and innovation. Join us as we pave the way toward an even brighter tomorrow, where tradition meets transformation!
Head Chef in London employer: Fenwick Limited
Fenwick is an exceptional employer that prioritises employee wellbeing and professional growth, offering generous benefits such as 33 days of annual leave, a birthday off, and a 25% discount across all stores. The collaborative work culture fosters a positive environment where People Advisors can thrive, utilising their analytical skills to drive strategic insights while supporting managers in enhancing workplace performance. With a commitment to continuous improvement and a focus on employee relations, Fenwick provides a meaningful and rewarding career path for those looking to make a real impact.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef in London
✨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 Fenwick Limited. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Fenwick Limited
Don't be shy about reaching out to Fenwick Limited 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 in London
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 Fenwick Limited 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 Fenwick Limited
✨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!
