At a Glance
- Tasks: Join us to explore exciting chef roles and showcase your culinary skills.
- Company: Houston & Hawkes, an award-winning independent contract caterer.
- Benefits: Competitive salaries, free meals, career progression, and unique experiences.
- Other info: Join us on 23 July at Regent's University London for our recruitment open day.
- Why this job: Be part of a top-rated hospitality team and grow your culinary career.
- Qualifications: Passion for food and a desire to learn in a dynamic kitchen environment.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 30000 £ per year.
CHEF RECRUITMENT OPEN DAY
Thursday 23 July | 3 pm – 6 pm | Regent's University London
Great chefs deserve great careers. At Houston & Hawkes, we're passionate about exceptional food, outstanding hospitality and creating careers people are proud of. Join us at our Chef Recruitment Open Day and discover where your next opportunity could take you.
Why Houston & Hawkes?
- Ranked No. 14 Best Places to Work in Hospitality.
- Award-winning independent contract caterer.
- Certified B Corp.
- Recipient of the King's Award for Enterprise.
- Founders Simon Houston and Dave Hawkes recognised with the 2026 Cateys Foodservice Caterer Award.
- We invest in our people and promote from within.
Opportunities Available
- Head Chef
- Chef Manager
- Sous Chef
- Junior Sous Chef
- Senior Chef de Partie
- Chef de Partie
- Pastry Chef
Why Join Us?
- Competitive salaries
- Annual leave
- Free meals on duty
- Pension scheme
- Life assurance
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Enhanced family-friendly benefits
- Birthday off
- CODE Hospitality membership
- Chef masterclasses
- Supplier visits and seasonal foraging experiences
- Summer and Christmas celebrations
- Career progression
Event Details
Thursday 23 July
3 pm – 6 pm
Regent's University London
Inner Circle
Regent's Park
London NW1 4NS
Register your interest today and discover what makes Houston & Hawkes one of the UK's most exciting hospitality employers.
Recruitment Open Day - Chef at all levels in London employer: Houston & Hawkes
Houston & Hawkes is an exceptional employer that prioritises employee satisfaction and growth, offering a competitive salary and the opportunity to work in a dynamic environment across various sites in Cambridge. With a strong focus on seasonal food and high culinary standards, employees benefit from a supportive work culture that encourages creativity and collaboration, making it a rewarding place for passionate chefs to thrive.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Recruitment Open Day - Chef at all levels in London
✨Explore Local Hotspots
For entry-level roles in the hospitality food service industry, getting a foot in the door can often mean walking into local cafés, restaurants, or hotels with your CV in hand. Introduce yourself, ask about openings, and show your enthusiasm. This face-to-face approach can really set you apart from other candidates who just apply online!
✨Utilise Seasonal Hiring Trends
Keep an eye on the busy seasons, like summer or winter holidays, when restaurants and venues are ramping up for new staff. Many establishments look for extra hands during these peak times, so target your applications around these windows. Engage with local event calendars to find places that might be preparing for busy periods.
✨Join Hospitality Communities
Connect with local hospitality groups on social media or platforms like Meetup; they're a great way to learn about unadvertised opportunities and network with industry folks. Plus, you’ll get insider tips on where the best spots to apply are, and maybe even find a mentor to guide you through your first steps in the industry.
✨Polish those Soft Skills
In food service, your ability to communicate well and remain calm under pressure is crucial. Consider volunteering at local events or gatherings where you can showcase these skills. It not only adds experience to your CV but also demonstrates your willingness to learn and adapt, which is super enticing to potential employers like Houston & Hawkes.
We think you need these skills to ace Recruitment Open Day - Chef at all levels in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Skills:In the hospitality-food-service world, mentioning your customer service experience is key. Even if it’s just a part-time gig or a volunteer role, highlight how you made customers happy or handled tricky situations. We love seeing those people-focused skills in your application!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you've got any relevant certifications, like a food hygiene certificate or bartending course, make sure they shine in your CV. Certifications show you're serious about your craft, and we appreciate candidates who come prepared with the right knowledge and skills for the job.
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:For an entry-level position like this, your cover letter should reflect your enthusiasm and willingness to learn. Talk about why you’re excited about the role at Houston & Hawkes and what you hope to gain from working in hospitality. Let your personality come through!
Keep Your CV Clear and Concise:In hospitality, hiring managers might be sifting through loads of applications. Keep your CV neat and ensure it highlights your relevant experience and skills without fluff. Stick to one page if you can, making it easy for us to see why you'd be a great fit at Houston & Hawkes!
How to prepare for a job interview at Houston & Hawkes
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
You'd be surprised at how many candidates stumble on questions about the menu! Make sure you familiarise yourself with the food and drink offerings at Houston & Hawkes. Knowing the ingredients, cooking methods, and even the specials can really impress your interviewer and show you're genuinely interested.
✨Show Off Your Customer Service Skills
In the hospitality-food-service world, customer service is king. Prepare some examples of how you've handled customer interactions in the past, whether in a part-time job or even during group projects. Practising these scenarios can set you apart and highlight your problem-solving abilities.
✨Be Ready for Practical Assessments
Since you're going for an entry-level role, don't be surprised if they ask you to demonstrate your skills in a practical way. Whether that's making a drink or setting a table, brush up on basic hospitality tasks. It shows that you're not just talk, but you can walk the walk too!
✨Display Your Willingness to Learn
As an entry-level candidate, your enthusiasm and willingness to grow can go a long way. Be prepared to discuss what you hope to learn and how you can contribute to the team at Houston & Hawkes. Your motivation can often outweigh experience, so let that passion shine through!
