At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist in running a busy kitchen and oversee counter service.
- Company: Join Haskins, an award-winning family-owned garden centre business.
- Benefits: Enjoy sociable hours, generous discounts, and health support.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth with up to 38 days holiday.
- Why this job: Be part of a friendly team and make customers smile every day.
- Qualifications: Previous catering experience and excellent communication skills required.
You will be required to assist in the day-to‑day running of a very busy production Kitchen, supplying food for the highly successful Restaurant in the Garden Centre. This role also entails the overseeing of counter service on the Carvery & Pizza Oven. You will supervise and motivate our kitchen team. This role benefits from Sociable hours with no split shifts as well as alternate weekends.
We constantly strive to improve the service and experience we offer our customers, that's why the recruitment of our people is so important to us. If you are passionate about delivering excellent customer service, have a sense of humour and an eagerness to learn, we want you to join our friendly, happy team., This role is well suited to a self‑motivated, enthusiastic, and hardworking individual with excellent customer service skills. The successful candidate will be proactive and energetic and be able to work in a busy fast paced environment. You should have previous catering/hospitality-based experience and excellent communication skills.
We are recruiting a Sous Chef on a Full-Time, Permanent Basis. Working hours are 38 hours per week, to include alternate weekends. Salary from £31,000 per annum DOE. Haskins Garden Centres Haskins is a family owned, award winning business with 5 destination garden centres across the South of England, each with a large restaurant.,
- Generous Company Discount scheme.
- Retail discount scheme, saving money on day-to-day spending, days out, and gifts.
- Cycle Scheme, spread the cost of a bike and save on tax.
- Health Cash Plan, for a small monthly contribution access a 24-hour online GP service recover costs for dental and optical appointments and more.
- Time off to support local charities, with an annual paid Charity Day
- Wellbeing support with internal Mental Health First Aiders and external Assistance Program providing free counselling and advice for you and your family.
- Company pension scheme for eligible employees
- Free on-site parking
- Up to 38 days of Holiday (pro-rata)
- Uniform provided
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Sous Chef - Full Time - West End Restaurant - West End, Southampton employer: Haskins Garden Centres
Haskins Garden Centres in Southampton is an excellent employer, offering a vibrant work culture where customer service excellence is at the heart of everything we do. Employees enjoy generous benefits such as a company discount scheme, health cash plan, and up to 38 days holiday (pro-rata), alongside opportunities for personal growth and development in a supportive environment. Join us to be part of a team that values enthusiasm and dedication while serving our community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sous Chef - Full Time - West End Restaurant - West End, Southampton
✨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 Haskins Garden Centres. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Haskins Garden Centres
Don't be shy about reaching out to Haskins Garden Centres 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 - Full Time - West End Restaurant - West End, Southampton
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 Haskins Garden Centres 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 Haskins Garden Centres
✨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!
