At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a busy kitchen, ensuring high-quality food and managing health & safety standards.
- Company: Join the QHotels Collection, a diverse and inclusive employer with a commitment to sustainability.
- Benefits: Enjoy free health club membership, discounts, training support, and free parking.
- Other info: Work at the beautiful Oxford Belfry Hotel & Spa, close to the Cotswolds.
- Why this job: Make an impact in a vibrant environment while developing your culinary leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef in a high-volume setting.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Are you a strong people manager? Do you thrive in a busy kitchen, working together alongside your brigade?
The important stuff:
- Free health club membership (T&Cs apply)
- Discounts across The QHotels Collection
- Family & Friends discounts in hotels across The QHotels Collection
- Support with training & professional qualifications, including course fees!
- Various learning & development available
- Access to an Employee Assistance Program – Hospitality Action
- Refer a friend scheme
- FREE parking
- AND……much, much more!
- Chef whites provided
What will I do? Leading by example, you will be hands on in the kitchen, but you will also manage your time to ensure all the health & safety, food safety checks and admin is actioned. You will be responsible for ensuring the quality and delivery of food leaving the kitchen pass is to spec, to a very high standard and presentable.
Is this the role for me?
- Previous experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef
- Have worked in a hotel environment or in a busy, high volume operation
- Conference, banqueting & events catering experience would be ideal
- Quality & standards driven with a keen eye for detail
- People management experience
- Strong knowledge of GP, stock control, costs and wastage
Curious to find out more? Oxford Belfry Hotel & Spa is located in Thame, just outside Oxford and within close proximity to the Cotswolds. Our hotel is a 4*, 154-bedroom property and has the Spires restaurant and bar & lounge area, and we offer afternoon tea as well as private dining and meetings and event spaces. The leisure facilities include a gym, pool, sauna, tennis courts, and a relaxing Elemis spa.
The QHotels Collection are proud to be a Disability Confident employer and we are committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunities for all. We believe everyone should be treated equal so should you require any reasonable adjustments to any stage of the recruitment process, please do not hesitate to let us know so we can make the changes accordingly.
We are thrilled to share that all of our hotels have now been accredited with either a Bronze or Silver Award from Green Tourism! The QHotels Collection proudly supports the UK Armed Forces and have signed the Armed Forces Covenant achieving the Silver Award.
Head Chef in Thame employer: Oxford Belfry Hotel & Spa
At The QHotels Collection, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that values diversity and inclusion. As a Head Chef at the Oxford Belfry Hotel & Spa, you will enjoy numerous benefits including free health club membership, professional development support, and a range of discounts across our hotels, all while working in a stunning location near the Cotswolds. Join us to lead a passionate team in a busy kitchen environment where your culinary expertise and people management skills will be celebrated and nurtured.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef in Thame
✨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 Oxford Belfry Hotel & Spa. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Oxford Belfry Hotel & Spa
Don't be shy about reaching out to Oxford Belfry Hotel & Spa 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 in Thame
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 Oxford Belfry Hotel & Spa 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 Oxford Belfry Hotel & Spa
✨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!
