At a Glance
- Tasks: Create delicious dishes and contribute to exciting menu development.
- Company: Join a vibrant team at our Bracknell head office.
- Benefits: Enjoy free meals, full chef whites, and a competitive salary.
- Other info: Flexible shifts with night premium pay and opportunities for career advancement.
- Why this job: Be part of a collaborative environment that values your growth and creativity.
- Qualifications: GCSEs or equivalent, with food hygiene certifications preferred.
About the Role
As a Chef at our Bracknell head office, you will play a vital role in bringing our hospitality offer to life, producing food to the highest possible standards while maintaining a sharp eye on cost parameters and compliance. This is a collaborative role within our Hospitality & Food Service team, where you will do much more than work your section. You will actively contribute to menu development, ensuring our food is nutritious, inspiring, and commercially sustainable. Beyond day‑to‑day food production, you will act as a key player in head office campus life, collaborating with the wider Facilities team to support smooth operations and maintain an immaculate, legally compliant kitchen environment. If you are a team‑oriented chef who loves delivering exceptional service and thrives in an environment that prioritises professional growth, this is the perfect place to build your career.
Key Responsibilities
- Produce food in line with menu guidelines to the highest standards and within budgetary requirements.
- Actively contribute to menu preparation and development, ensuring a balanced, nutritious, and commercially sustainable food offer.
- Ensure all kitchen sections meet food safety, hygiene legislation, and industry best practices.
- Accurately record food preparation for management information and food safety compliance.
- Maintain full compliance with JLP Catering policies, health and safety regulations, and all relevant legislation.
- Conduct due diligence tasks and maintain accurate records.
- Support the development of holistic, coordinated support services across the campus in collaboration with the Facilities team.
- Assist in recovery of the business during service failure or other critical situations.
- Act in accordance with the Partnership’s purpose and democratic principles, demonstrating co‑ownership and continuous professional development.
- Apply night premium for shifts between 22:00 and 06:00 (£4.25 per hour).
Benefits of the Role
- Full chef whites and safety shoes included.
- Free meals whilst on duty.
Essential Skills & Experience
- Good basic education – GCSEs – A Levels – Vocational equivalents.
- Intermediate Food Hygiene Certificate – Level 2.
- Recognised Food Production Certificate – Level 2 City & Guilds 706 1 & 2 or equivalent.
- Operational experience in PDRs, canteens or hospitality.
Desirable Skills & Experience
- Working towards Advanced Food Hygiene Certificate – Level 3.
Employment Details
- Salary: £28,400 – £38,600.
- Contract type: Permanent.
- Location: Bracknell campus, Doncastle Road, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 8YA.
- Working pattern: Mon‑Fri 07:00 – 15:00, with 5 out of 7 days covering weekends or evening shifts (11:30‑20:00).
- Closing date: July 1, 2026.
Chef - Bracknell Head office employer: John Lewis plc
As a Chef at our Bracknell head office, you will join a dynamic and supportive team that values collaboration and professional growth. With benefits such as free meals during shifts and a commitment to maintaining high standards in food safety and quality, this role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a vibrant campus life while developing your culinary skills in a nurturing environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chef - Bracknell Head office
✨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 John Lewis plc. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to John Lewis plc
Don't be shy about reaching out to John Lewis plc 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 Chef - Bracknell Head office
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 John Lewis plc 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 John Lewis plc
✨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!
