At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a vibrant kitchen, cooking and managing daily operations with flair.
- Company: Join ibis Styles London Gatwick Airport, a dynamic hotel with a focus on guest experience.
- Benefits: Enjoy hotel discounts, a birthday day off, and more perks.
- Other info: Embrace diversity and inclusion in a supportive workplace.
- Why this job: Be a hands-on leader in a fast-paced environment, making a real impact on food quality.
- Qualifications: 3+ years in a senior kitchen role with strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 38000 - 38000 £ per year.
We’re looking for an experienced, hands‑on Head Chef / Kitchen Manager to lead the kitchen at our open‑plan Wanderlust Bar & Restaurant. This is a fully operational role where you’ll be on the pass, cooking during service, and leading by example. You’ll take full responsibility for the day‑to‑day running of the kitchen, delivering consistently high‑quality food in a fast‑paced hotel environment.
Salary: Up to £38,000 per annum
Hours: Full‑time
Benefits: Hotel discounts, birthday day off, and more
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead and manage daily kitchen operations while remaining hands‑on
- Prepare and present food to a consistently high standard
- Manage, train, and motivate the kitchen team
- Ensure compliance with food safety, HACCP, and health & safety standards
- Oversee stock control, ordering, rotas, and waste management
- Work closely with the Food & Beverage team to ensure smooth service
Requirements:
- Minimum 3 years’ experience in a senior kitchen role (hotel, pub, or restaurant)
- Strong leadership skills with a hands‑on approach
- Solid knowledge of food safety and kitchen operations
- Flexible to work evenings and weekends
With over 180 bedrooms, food is a key part of our guest experience. If you’re a confident kitchen leader who enjoys being on the tools while driving standards, we’d love to hear from you.
Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion: We are an inclusive company and our ambition is to attract, recruit and promote diverse talent.
Head Chef/ Kitchen Manager in Crawley employer: IBIS STYLES
At ibis Styles London Gatwick Airport, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer that values hands-on leadership and culinary excellence. Our vibrant work culture fosters creativity and teamwork, offering you the chance to develop your skills while enjoying benefits like hotel discounts and a birthday day off. Join us in a dynamic environment where your contributions directly enhance our guests' experiences and where your growth is supported every step of the way.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef/ Kitchen Manager in Crawley
✨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 IBIS STYLES. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to IBIS STYLES
Don't be shy about reaching out to IBIS STYLES 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 Head Chef/ Kitchen Manager in Crawley
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 IBIS STYLES 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 IBIS STYLES
✨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!
