At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a vibrant kitchen, create seasonal specials, and inspire your team.
- Company: Join The Bull, a dynamic independent pub at the heart of Wanstead.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, quarterly bonuses, and 40% food discounts for you and friends.
- Other info: Enjoy a supportive environment with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a growing food business with exciting future plans.
- Qualifications: Previous Head Chef experience and a passion for fresh, high-quality food.
The predicted salary is between 44000 - 46000 £ per year.
£44,000 - £46,000 + Tronc. OTE £47k - £49k + Quarterly Bonus. Lead a growing food business, not just a kitchen. We're looking for a Head Chef to lead the kitchen at The Bull in Wanstead, one of the most exciting opportunities in our established independent hospitality business. This isn’t just a kitchen leadership role – it’s a chance to take ownership of a food business that is being actively invested in and expanded. The Bull has recently relaunched its large outdoor garden, complete with a brand‑new outdoor kitchen and vibrant outdoor food concept. Think summer vibes, outdoor dining, music, events and great food at the heart of the guest experience. Further significant investment is planned inside the pub this year, expanding the operation and creating an exciting opportunity for an ambitious Head Chef to grow with the business. If you’re passionate about fresh produce, cooked‑to‑order food, developing people and creating memorable guest experiences, we’d love to hear from you.
About The Bull
The Bull is a beautiful listed building and former bank at the heart of the Wanstead community. Located on Wanstead High Street, just 100 yards from the Tube station, it combines character, community and ambition. Alongside our recent garden transformation, exciting plans are underway to further develop the pub and grow our food offer. The Bull is part of Livelyhood, an established and growing owner and operator of independent neighbourhood businesses where hospitality is at the heart of everything we do. We currently have 7 sites.
About You
- Loves fresh food and high standards
- Enjoys leading and developing teams
- Has strong organisational and communication skills
- Understands food safety, HACCP and Health & Safety requirements
- Thrives in busy, quality‑focused kitchens
- Wants to play a key role in growing a food business
Previous Head Chef experience is essential for this role. Experience leading a fresh‑food kitchen delivering £10k+ weekly food sales would be advantageous.
What You’ll Do
- Lead, inspire and develop your kitchen team
- Deliver consistently great food and service
- Manage ordering, stock and food cost controls
- Maintain excellent food safety and kitchen standards
- Create and deliver seasonal specials
- Support menu development and innovation
- Work closely with the GM to actively drive the next stage of food growth at The Bull
What We Offer
- Competitive salary of £44,000 - £46,000
- Tronc currently tracking at approximately £3,000 per year.
- OTE £47k - £49k
- Quarterly Head Chef bonus scheme – £1,500 per quarter
- Supportive working environment with 45‑hour weeks as the norm
- Milestone rewards and recognition programme
- 40% food and drink discount for you and three guests from day one
- Hospitality and retail discounts through Hospitality Rewards
- Access to earned pay on demand
- Employee assistance and wellbeing support
Most importantly, you’ll have the opportunity to lead a growing food operation, make a real impact and be part of an ambitious independent pub business with exciting plans for the future – including the development of our own food brand. We review applications as they arrive, so please apply as soon as possible. Applicants must have a UK bank account and the right to work in the UK.
Head Chef The Bull in Wanstead employer: Livelyhood Pub Group
At The Bull in Wanstead, we pride ourselves on being more than just a pub; we are a vibrant community hub where culinary passion meets innovation. As part of Livelyhood, our supportive work culture fosters personal and professional growth, offering competitive salaries, generous discounts, and a chance to lead an exciting food operation with significant investment in our facilities. Join us to make a meaningful impact in a dynamic environment that values fresh produce, creativity, and memorable guest experiences.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef The Bull in Wanstead
✨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 Livelyhood Pub Group. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Livelyhood Pub Group
Don't be shy about reaching out to Livelyhood Pub Group 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 Bull in Wanstead
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 Livelyhood Pub Group 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 Livelyhood Pub Group
✨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!
