At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a vibrant kitchen, cooking with quality ingredients and inspiring your team.
- Company: Upham Inns, a growing collection of unique pubs across Southern England.
- Benefits: Real work/life balance, 100% tips, career development, and generous discounts.
- Other info: Exciting growth opportunities in a supportive and friendly atmosphere.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team and make your mark in a fast-paced environment.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Sous Chef or Head Chef with strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Are you an experienced Sous Chef with your eyes set on leading your own kitchen within the next 12 months? Or perhaps you’re already a Head Chef looking for a fresh start in a growing company that truly values its people? If so, this could be the opportunity you’ve been waiting for. We’re on the hunt for a passionate, quality-driven Head Chef Designate to join our vibrant, fresh food kitchen operation. This is your chance to step up and shine in a business that’s going places – fast!
What’s in it for you?
- Real work/life balance – we genuinely mean it!
- Tronc scheme – 100% of tips go to our team.
- Career development – a clear path to Head Chef and beyond.
- Generous discounts – up to 50% off food and accommodation across our pubs and charming bedrooms.
A Role You’ll Be Proud Of
We’re looking for a natural leader – someone who:
- Enjoys cooking from scratch with quality, seasonal ingredients
- Thrives in a fast‑paced, fresh food environment
- Knows how to coach, inspire and bring out the best in their team
- Has a passion for consistency, standards and 5‑star hygiene
- Brings energy, positivity and a “let’s get it done” attitude
This isn’t a role for the faint‑hearted. We’re busy, and we’re only getting busier – but if you love a challenge, you’ll thrive here.
Who are we?
We’re Upham Inns – a collection of premium pubs across Southern England, Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire and Wiltshire, each one unique, full of character and rooted in its local community. We serve high‑quality, seasonal food in warm, welcoming pubs – many with charming bedrooms too. We’ve also recently launched Harper’s Steakhouse – a fresh, bold take on the American steakhouse, and it’s already making waves.
Why Join Us?
We’re growing fast – and we want you to grow with us. We invest in our people, we value individuality, and we’re building something special. We’re big enough to support you with great opportunities, yet small enough to know your name. If you’re ready to make your mark and join a passionate, friendly team where your ideas count – then we’d love to hear from you. Your next chapter starts here. Ready? Let’s cook.
Head Chef Designate employer: Harpers Haslemere
Upham Inns is an exceptional employer that prioritises work/life balance and offers a supportive environment for career development, particularly for aspiring Head Chefs. With generous discounts on food and accommodation, a commitment to quality ingredients, and a vibrant team culture, you'll find a place where your passion for cooking and leadership can truly flourish. Join us in our unique pubs across Southern England and be part of a growing company that values individuality and fosters personal growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef Designate
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to fellow chefs, industry contacts, or even friends who might know someone at Upham Inns. A personal connection can make all the difference when it comes to landing that Head Chef Designate role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! If you get the chance, cook a dish that highlights your passion for quality ingredients and fresh food. This is your moment to shine and demonstrate why you're the perfect fit for our vibrant kitchen.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to chat about your leadership style. We want to hear how you inspire and coach your team. Prepare some examples of how you've brought out the best in others – it’ll show us you’re the natural leader we’re looking for!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to check out our website for any updates on the application process. Applying directly through us not only shows your enthusiasm but also gives you a better chance to stand out in the crowd!
We think you need these skills to ace Head Chef Designate
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Food:When writing your application, let your love for cooking and quality ingredients shine through. Share your experiences with fresh food and how you’ve thrived in fast-paced environments – we want to see that energy!
Highlight Your Leadership Skills:As a Head Chef Designate, you’ll need to inspire and coach your team. Make sure to include examples of how you've led others in the kitchen, showcasing your ability to bring out the best in your colleagues.
Be Authentic:We value individuality at Upham Inns, so don’t be afraid to let your personality come through in your application. Share your unique approach to cooking and what makes you stand out as a candidate.
Apply Through Our Website:Ready to take the leap? We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to get to know you and for you to show us why you’re the perfect fit for our vibrant kitchen!
How to prepare for a job interview at Harpers Haslemere
✨Know Your Ingredients
Familiarise yourself with the types of seasonal ingredients that are popular in the area. Be ready to discuss how you would incorporate these into your menu. This shows your passion for quality cooking and your understanding of local produce.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led a team in the kitchen. Think about specific situations where you coached or inspired your colleagues. This will demonstrate your natural leadership qualities and your ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
✨Emphasise Hygiene Standards
Be prepared to talk about your approach to maintaining 5-star hygiene standards in the kitchen. Share any relevant experiences or practices you’ve implemented in previous roles to ensure food safety and cleanliness.
✨Bring Your Energy
During the interview, let your enthusiasm shine through! Share why you’re excited about this opportunity and how you can contribute to the vibrant atmosphere at Upham Inns. A positive attitude can make a lasting impression.
