At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a vibrant kitchen, crafting delicious breakfast and brunch dishes.
- Company: The Breakfast Club, a beloved café with a fun, supportive atmosphere.
- Benefits: Free meals, 32 days holiday, paid volunteering, and flexible wage access.
- Other info: Inclusive hiring practices and opportunities for personal growth.
- Why this job: Enjoy daytime hours, no late nights, and make a real impact on customers' days.
- Qualifications: Experience in a busy kitchen and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 29250 - 35750 £ per year.
The Breakfast Club is looking for a passionate and talented Head Chef to join us, and this one is a bit special.
Our Hackney Wick caf was born on the banks of the River Lea back in May 2016, coincidentally just down the road from where The Big Breakfast used to be filmed.
Open the windows wide on a hot summer's day and you'll see why some people call this place the Hackney Riviera.
Here's the headline
this is a
DAYTIME ONLY kitchen .
No splits, no midnight finishes, no missing bedtime.
You'll run a cracking breakfast and brunch service, then get your evenings back.
In this industry that's rare, and we mean it.
And you won't be doing it on your own.
You'll run the site shoulder to shoulder with Yolanda, our fantastic General Manager, who knows this place inside out and will have your back from day one.
The role and you
You'll be a positive influence in our kitchen, helping deliver the Nation's Best Loved Caf.
Working closely with your team, you'll build a culture of loyalty, opportunity and support, and never lose sight of the impact you can have on someone's day and their career.
As Head Chef you'll promote and hold the highest standards across every corner of your kitchen and keep us at a 5 star rated environment, while staying on top of the consistency, quality and timing of every plate that leaves the pass.
You'll be comfortable and confident with the financials and all the other management that comes with running a busy kitchen, across a 45 hour week.
What's in it for you
- Free meal and drinks on every shift.
- Industry leading holiday allowance, 32 days.
- Paid volunteering.
- 50% discount on all food and drink for you and up to 3 of your friends.
- Share of Tronc for every hour worked. 100% of our Tronc goes to our employees, and you access it as you earn it. (Tronc is discretionary and non-contractual.)
- Access to your earned wages whenever you need them via Level. Claim up to 70% of your wages as you earn them.
- Uniform provided and washed for you.
- Los Cincos: 5 years of service or more gets you 5 extra days holiday.
- Join The BC Track Club, with the chance to take on some life changing running challenges and more.
We think everybody deserves the chance to work with us.
We're proud to work with a number of organisations that support people with disabilities, prison leavers and people who have experienced homelessness into work.
We don't ask about prison history in our application process and we're a disability confident employer.
If you'd feel you had a fairer chance by using a different name, or leaving off your age, ethnicity or gender on your application, then go for it.
If you need any other adjustments to make our process fairer for you, just let us know.
The advertised rate is On Target Earnings (OTE): your basic salary plus your share of non-contractual Tronc.
Interested? Apply now.
Head Chef in London employer: Hackney Wick
The Breakfast Club is an exceptional employer that prioritises a vibrant work culture and employee well-being. With benefits like free meals, generous discounts, and opportunities for paid volunteering, we foster a supportive environment where every Barista can thrive. Our commitment to inclusivity and community engagement ensures that you not only grow professionally but also make a meaningful impact in the lives of others.
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 Hackney Wick. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Hackney Wick
Don't be shy about reaching out to Hackney Wick 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 Hackney Wick 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 Hackney Wick
✨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!
