At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic kitchen team and create vibrant menus for our new restaurant and large events.
- Company: Join The Met Hotel Leeds, a top-rated independent hotel known for its innovative approach.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, discounted stays, enhanced leave, and free meals on duty.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team that values individuality and career growth.
- Why this job: Make your mark in a fast-paced environment while showcasing your culinary creativity.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Head Chef in high-volume catering and a passion for fresh, local cuisine.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 33500 £ per year.
- Head Chef - The Met Hotel Leeds Description
- JOIN US
At RBH we believe our people are our biggest assets and understand the value in putting them first.
Our approach to diversity in the workplace, health & wellbeing, sustainability and individuality sets us apart from our competitors and is one of the reasons we are rated Top 30 Best Places to Work in Hospitality!
We are passionate about the industry and always on the lookout for new talent to join us on our journey...
OUR HOTEL
After an extensive refurbishment and repositioning, The Met has established itself as one of the leading independent hotels in Leeds and the North of England.
A lifestyle hotel alongside offering high-volume conference and events hotel known for hosting major corporate functions, gala dinners and bespoke weddings.
Alongside our banqueting operations, Gotts Bar & Kitchen has been reimagined, featuring modern, locally sourced cuisine.
We are looking for an exceptional, multi-faceted Head Chef who can balance the culinary artistry required for a new restaurant with the strategic precision needed to execute large-scale event catering.
The Role
This is a unique leadership position.
You will have total operational and creative ownership of Gotts B&K and our extensive events kitchen.
You will lead a kitchen brigade to deliver a flawless service while simultaneously executing multiple banquets for up to 350 guests.
Key Responsibilities
- Large-Scale Conference & Banqueting: Oversee the planning, preparation, and seamless execution of diverse conference and event menus, ensuring hot, high-quality food is delivered precisely on time.
- Gotts Bar & Kitchen Drive the culinary identity of the new restaurant, designing vibrant, commercially viable menus that attract both hotel residents and local foodies
- Leadership: Recruit, train, and manage a robust kitchen team, effectively structuring shifts to cover both independent restaurant service and banqueting requirements.
- Financial Control: Take full accountability for food and labour costs across multiple outlets, managing supplier contracts, inventory, and wastage to maximise overall GP margins.
- Compliance: Ensure total adherence to food safety, allergen management, and health and safety regulations across all food prep and service areas.
About You
We need a highly organised, resilient culinary leader who thrives in a fast-paced, multi-outlet environment and understands the logistics of scale.
- Experience: Head Chef in a large-scale conference hotel, resort, or high-volume event catering business.
- Dual Expertise: Proven experience running a premium fresh-food restaurant, alongside a track record of executing seamless banquets for large guest counts.
- Logistical Acumen: Exceptional organisational skills with a strong grasp of food costings, menu engineering, staff rostering, and kitchen logistics.
- Qualifications: Level 3 Food Safety certification, relevant culinary qualifications, and a deep knowledge of modern allergen compliance.
- OUR BENEFITS
- You will have access to a benefits package we believe truly works for our people
- 40hr Week
- Discounted hotel room rates for you and your friends & family
- An additional day's leave for your birthday
- Enhanced Maternity, adoption & shared parental leave
- Course Sponsorship
- 30% F&B discount at RBH hotels
- Refer a Friend scheme (earn 250 for each referral up to 5 referrals)
- Flexible working arrangements
- Wagestream - choose how and when you get paid
- Life Insurance
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Social and wellness events and activities all year round
- Free meals on duty saving you over 1000 per year
- EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES
RBH Hospitality Management is an equal opportunity employer.
We believe in hiring a diverse workforce and sustaining an inclusive, people-first culture.
If at any point throughout our process you require reasonable adjustments, please contact .
Head Chef - The Met Hotel Leeds employer: leisurejobs
Giggling Squid is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises family values and a passion for Thai cuisine. With a strong focus on employee development through comprehensive training programmes, competitive salaries, and generous benefits like weekly pay and staff discounts, we ensure our team members feel valued and supported. Join us in Leamington Spa, where you can enjoy a fulfilling career in one of the UK's fastest-growing restaurant groups while embracing the warmth of our unique Thai heritage.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef - The Met Hotel Leeds
✨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 leisurejobs. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to leisurejobs
Don't be shy about reaching out to leisurejobs 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 - The Met Hotel Leeds
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 leisurejobs 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 leisurejobs
✨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!