At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare and cook delicious dishes in a vibrant kitchen environment.
- Company: Join the exciting new Mad Swans team in the South Downs.
- Benefits: Enjoy tips, free meals, discounts, and access to fun activities.
- Other info: Flexible hours, team events, and opportunities for personal growth.
- Why this job: Be part of a fresh culinary adventure and shape a brand-new role.
- Qualifications: Passion for food, creativity, and ability to thrive under pressure.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 31000 £ per year.
You bring your expertise, enthusiasms, and curiosities; and we'll provide you with a space to play. We are now recruiting for a number of extra Chef positions in our Kitchen Team. Mad Swans is looking for a number of Chefs to join our budding team. We are a brand-new opening, so you'll be the first person to step into these shoes and shape this brand-new role based at our second site: Mad Swans in the South Downs.
Although these are full-time positions, we will consider candidates who would like to work part time. Mad Swans in the South Downs is located in Blacknest near to Farnham & Alton. Full Address: Frith End Road, Blacknest, Hampshire, GU34 4QL.
We are serious about cooking and will be making fresh pasta, homemade ice cream and fresh pastries and bread in our in-house bakery. As we are a new opening, we will have three brand new kitchens along with all new kitchen equipment in order for the team to deliver excellent food.
What we do
We are experts in our field, committed to creating boundary-pushing social spaces that spark meaningful connections through play in nature. Mad Swans is a countryside hangout for mavericks. The unruly. The friendship groups you wish you were in. The families you want to hang out with. For evenings that go on forever. And weekends that become folklore. Come for a good time. Come for a long time. Come for a breath of fresh air. Whoever you are. Come as you are.
Social play spanning Padel Tennis, Pickleball, Darts, Shuffleboard and Golf gives guests the chance to explore one game or sample them all, across a few hours, a day, or a long weekend. We're all about great food, which is why we've teamed up with experts in their field to create two distinct dining experiences and endless ways to enjoy them. The Potting Shed proudly boasts a menu of refreshing takes on Brasserie classics while, in The Hangout, the focus is on shareable plates with no compromise on flavour. But wherever guests find themselves, from course to court, the meadow to the orchard, they're never far from a plate of something delicious to satisfy any craving.
What we can do for you
We understand that there's more to life than work, which is why our roles are designed to allow exploration, from long-time passions to brand-new intrigues. We believe that to be interested is to be interesting - that means industry-leading training within and outside of your specified job role. If you have a question, we want to provide you with the tools to answer it. As we make our start in the world, our team need to be able to wear a few different hats, which we treat as an opportunity, allowing you to take considered detours into topics of interest, in the pursuit of a broader, richer perspective.
And out of hours, our guests' playground is yours too. Enjoy the wide variety of green spaces, and the games they host, at an exclusive rate. You'll have the opportunity to get involved in all things Mad Swans, from padel lessons to cocktail workshops, after all, we want you to be as excited by our product as we are.
The key duties and responsibilities of these roles will include:
- Preparing and cooking delicious food options and dishes
- Follow approved and agreed recipes and cookbooks in line with our menus
- Process food orders using Procure Wizard
- Checking best before dates and stock rotation to reduce wastage
- Adhering to food hygiene standards
- Cleaning the kitchen to a high standard
- Supporting with Pot Wash as and when required
These are full-time permanent positions and will work any five days out of seven. Salary levels will vary by role and in line with experience. Location - this is an onsite role and will be located at Mad Swans in the South Downs, Frith End Road, Blacknest, Hampshire, GU34 4QL.
Working Hours - shift times will vary throughout the week; however, the regular operational times will be from 6.00 am to 11.00 pm. There will be a mix of straight and split shifts, depending on the role. Working Days - this role will work any five days out of seven and will involve working on weekends on a regular basis. Working hours will vary in line with the operating calendar and needs of the business.
Who we're looking for
- Experienced with a genuine passion for food, creativity and high standards
- Able to multi-task and work under pressure
- Committed to both Health & Safety and Food Hygiene Safety Standards
- Passionate about delivering a delicious menu and food offering
- Excited about being part of a new team and a new opening
- Excellent team players
- Flexible and happy to help and support in different sections
- Punctual and reliable
- Comfortable working in a very fast paced environment
Please note, you must be eligible to work in the UK as we are unable to sponsor any work permits or visas.
What is in it for you
- Tips & Service Charge
- Free Parking
- Free Employee Meal whilst on shift
- Wage Stream - access your pay for hours worked before pay day
- Employee Discounts on Food, Sports, Activities, Cabins and in the Retail Shop
- Reward & Recognition Initiatives
- Team Social & Well-being Activities & Events
- Employee Referral Scheme Bonus
- Mad Swans Water Bottle
- Mad Swans Hoodie
- Plant your own tree at Mad Swans
How to Apply
If you believe you have what it takes to come on-board and would like to be part of something new and exciting, we would love to hear from you. Please simply apply by hitting the apply button.
Recruitment Agencies - We are not working with any recruitment agencies at this time. As such, we do not accept any speculative CV's and/or candidate profiles and are, therefore, unable to consider these.
Chef Positions - Alton employer: Mad Swans
Mad Swans in the South Downs is an exceptional employer that fosters a vibrant and inclusive work culture, encouraging creativity and personal growth. With competitive earnings, comprehensive training opportunities, and unique perks like access to recreational activities and employee discounts, we ensure our team members thrive both professionally and personally. Join us in a picturesque location where your passion for food and hospitality can flourish amidst a community of like-minded individuals.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chef Positions - Alton
✨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 Mad Swans. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Mad Swans
Don't be shy about reaching out to Mad Swans 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 Positions - Alton
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 Mad Swans 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 Mad Swans
✨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!
