At a Glance
- Tasks: Create delicious dishes and lead a vibrant kitchen team at our new venue.
- Company: Join the award-winning Heartwood Collection, known for its cosy pubs and brasseries.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, training, discounts, and instant pay access.
- Other info: Great career growth opportunities as we expand to over 60 locations by 2027.
- Why this job: Be part of an exciting new opening and make your mark in the culinary world.
- Qualifications: 4-5 years experience in a kitchen with advanced knife skills and a passion for food.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
New Site Opening Jan/Feb 2026 – The Woodman, Southgate, London N13 4BD. Junior Sous Chefs - Join Us for an Exciting New Chapter!
Average 48-hours contract (Expected Salary). Positions potentially can start sooner in another location, ahead of the opening.
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 Junior 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:
- Package and hourly rate includes basic + TRONC*
- Contract average of 48 hours
- 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 passion and proven track record in delivering service, great quality, fresh food and training to chefs
- Able to work multiple sections as part of the kitchen team, follow recipes and demonstrate this to other chefs
- 4-5 years experience or progression in a service setting with advanced knife skills and working with classical cooking techniques
Heartwood Collection is a multi-award-winning hospitality group. Sunday Times Best Places to Work winner 2024. Double winner at the Publican Awards 2024. Best Pub Brand/ Concept at the Publican Awards 2025.
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.
Junior Sous Chef employer: Heartwood Collection
At Heartwood Collection, we pride ourselves on being an award-winning hospitality group that fosters a warm and vibrant work culture. As a Junior Sous Chef at The Woodman in Southgate, you'll benefit from bespoke training through our Stepping Stones programme, competitive pay, and generous discounts, all while being part of a community dedicated to delivering exceptional dining experiences. With exciting growth plans and a commitment to employee development, this is a fantastic opportunity for those looking to advance their culinary careers in a supportive environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Junior Sous Chef
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the venue! Before your interview, take a stroll around Southgate and check out The Woodman’s location. Familiarising yourself with the area and the vibe of the place can give you a leg up in the conversation.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion for food! When chatting with the hiring team, share your favourite dishes to cook and why you love them. This not only showcases your skills but also your enthusiasm for the culinary world.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Connect with current employees on social media or at local events. They might have insider tips or even put in a good word for you, which can really help your chances.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining the Heartwood family.
We think you need these skills to ace Junior Sous Chef
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your love for cooking and the culinary arts shine through. We want to see your enthusiasm for fresh, seasonal dishes and how you can contribute to our kitchen team at The Woodman.
Highlight Your Experience:Make sure to detail your 4-5 years of experience in a service setting. We’re looking for someone with advanced knife skills and classical cooking techniques, so don’t hold back on showcasing your journey in the culinary world!
Tailor Your Application:Take a moment to customise your application for this specific role. Mention how your skills align with our values at Heartwood Collection and why you’re excited about joining us for this new chapter at The Woodman.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and get to know you better. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our vibrant team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Heartwood Collection
✨Know Your Ingredients
Familiarise yourself with the menu and the types of dishes The Woodman will be serving. Be ready to discuss your experience with fresh, seasonal ingredients and how you can contribute to creating exciting new dishes.
✨Show Off Your Skills
Prepare to demonstrate your knife skills and classical cooking techniques during the interview. You might be asked to explain how you would approach a specific dish or handle a busy service, so think through your answers in advance.
✨Team Spirit is Key
Emphasise your ability to work as part of a team. Share examples of how you've trained other chefs or collaborated in a kitchen setting. Highlighting your passion for delivering great service will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some questions about the new site and its vision. Inquire about the training opportunities available through the Stepping Stones programme or how the team plans to maintain high standards in food quality. This shows your genuine interest in being part of their community.
