At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the kitchen team, create fresh dishes, and train fellow chefs.
- Company: Join the award-winning Heartwood Collection, known for its vibrant pubs.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, flexible hours, and discounts at our venues.
- Other info: Great career growth opportunities in a supportive and lively environment.
- Why this job: Be part of an exciting new opening and make your mark in hospitality.
- Qualifications: 3-4 years as a Sous Chef with strong leadership and culinary skills.
The predicted salary is between 31500 - 38500 £ per year.
New Site Opening Jan/Feb 2026 – The Woodman, Southgate, London N13 4BD. We are thrilled to announce the opening of The Woodman, a stunning new Heartwood Inn in the beautiful town of Southgate, North London. Just a stone’s throw from Southgate Tube and Grovelands Park, this historic site is undergoing a full refurbishment and stylish Heartwood redesign — plus an exciting new extension to elevate the guest experience. With over 70 dining covers, 80+ bar covers, 60 external terrace seats, and 36 dedicated parking spaces, The Woodman promises to be a landmark destination for locals and visitors alike.
At Heartwood Collection, we’re on the lookout for passionate and vibrant individuals to join our kitchen team as a Sous Chef. We’re an award-winning group of cosy pubs and atmospheric brasseries that truly feel like home. From the elegance of Brasserie Blanc to the charm of Heartwood Inns, we pride ourselves on serving fresh, seasonal dishes to our local communities.
What we offer:
- Salary package includes TRONC*
- Contract average of 48 hours with paid overtime
- Bespoke training and development through our Stepping Stones programme
- Access to the Employee Assistance Program with Hospitality Action
- Instant pay access through EarlyPay
- Enhanced Maternity & Paternity leave
- Up to £1,500 Referral Bonus
- 50% off food at any Heartwood Inns or Brasserie Blanc, plus a 20% discount for family and friends
- A birthday gift and Long Service Recognition
- Discounts on hundreds of retailers and experiences via Reward Gateway
- Cycle to Work Scheme
About You:
- Have a proven track record in running service from the line, fresh food cuisine and delivering training and support to chefs
- Able to work on and run any sections in the kitchen team, demonstrate leadership skills and assist the head chef
- 3-4 years experience in a Sous Chef role or similar, preferably with exposure to branded operations and a basic understanding of administration operations
Heartwood Collection is a multi-award-winning hospitality group, including Sunday Times Best Places to Work winner 2024 and Double winner at the Publican Awards 2024. At Heartwood Collection, we’re excited about the future. With over 40 locations now and plans to expand to more than 60 by 2027, including over 500 bedrooms, there’s never been a better time to join us. We’re committed to growing our team with progression opportunities across our estate. Join us and be part of a community that’s warm, genuine, and full of life.
*On Target Earnings is based on a 48-hour working week, TRONC is calculated from the expected 6 months' site average. Applications that require a change of sponsorship OR form overseas cannot be considered for this role.
Sous Chef employer: Hareoldredding
Heartwood Collection is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture where passion for hospitality thrives. With a commitment to employee growth through bespoke training and development programmes, alongside generous benefits like enhanced maternity and paternity leave, discounts, and a supportive community, joining our team as a Bartender means being part of a dynamic family that values your contributions and well-being. As we expand our locations, there are exciting opportunities for career progression in a multi-award-winning environment that feels like home.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sous 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 Hareoldredding. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Hareoldredding
Don't be shy about reaching out to Hareoldredding 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 Sous 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 Hareoldredding 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 Hareoldredding
✨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!
