At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic kitchen team and create high-quality dishes in a busy waterfront venue.
- Company: Award-winning venue in Bowness-on-Windermere, known for its vibrant atmosphere.
- Benefits: £40,000 salary, free meals, staff discounts, and an annual party.
- Other info: Join a supportive team and enjoy a fun, fast-paced work environment.
- Why this job: Take ownership of the kitchen and showcase your culinary skills to holidaymakers.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Head Chef or strong Sous Chef ready for the next step.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 40000 £ per year.
We are hiring for a busy, three-level waterfront venue in Bowness-on-Windermere, serving fresh food and drinks to guests who are genuinely on holiday and enjoying themselves. The employer is proud to be a Cumbria Tourism Awards finalist and winner of the Best Beer Garden award.
As Head Chef, you will take real ownership of the kitchen, lead your team with confidence, and consistently deliver high-quality food throughout busy services.
Key Responsibilities:- Leading the kitchen team day-to-day, setting standards and driving performance
- Delivering consistent, high-quality dishes across busy services
- Managing stock, ordering, and supplier relationships
- Controlling GP margins and minimising waste
- Ensuring food safety, hygiene, and compliance at all times
- Training and developing the kitchen team to maintain consistency and standards
- Working closely with the wider management team to ensure smooth service operations
- Experienced as a Head Chef, or a strong Sous Chef ready to step into their first Head Chef role
- Comfortable leading a team in a busy, high-volume environment
- Strong on standards, consistency, and kitchen discipline
- Confident managing stock, costs, and GP margins
- Knowledgeable in food safety and hygiene (Level 2 minimum)
- Able to take ownership of day-to-day back-of-house operations
- Available to work evenings, weekends, and peak trading periods
- Hands-on and willing to lead from the front during busy services
- A passion for delivering consistently high-quality food in a fast-paced environment
- A technology-focused approach to kitchen management and stock systems
- Experience managing, mentoring, and developing kitchen teams
- Strong communication skills with both kitchen and front-of-house teams
- Strong spoken and written English skills
- Confidence being on camera, as they regularly celebrate their teams and showcase what they do on social media
- £40,000 per annum, 45h a week
- Monthly staff tips
- Free meals on shift
- Discounts across all Hargreaves Enterprises venues
- Burnt Chef Project Supporters
- Annual end-of-year staff party
Head Chef employer: Recruit Cumbria
Join a vibrant and dynamic team at our award-winning waterfront venue in Bowness-on-Windermere, where we pride ourselves on delivering exceptional dining experiences to holidaymakers. As an employer, we offer a supportive work culture that values creativity and teamwork, alongside competitive benefits such as a generous salary, free meals, and discounts across all our venues. With opportunities for professional growth and development, you will thrive in an environment that celebrates culinary excellence and fosters a passion for high-quality food.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the venue! Before your interview, spend some time at the waterfront spot. Check out the vibe, the menu, and even chat with staff if you can. This shows you’re genuinely interested and helps you tailor your approach.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your leadership skills! During interviews, share specific examples of how you've led a kitchen team in high-pressure situations. We want to hear about your successes and how you’ve developed others – it’s all about teamwork!
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to discuss your passion for food! Talk about your favourite dishes to create and how you ensure quality and consistency. We love candidates who can bring creativity and enthusiasm to the table.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to get noticed. Plus, we’re always on the lookout for candidates who take that extra step to connect with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Chef
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your love for food and cooking shine through! We want to see your enthusiasm for delivering high-quality dishes and leading a team in a busy kitchen.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience as a Head Chef or Sous Chef. We’re looking for someone who can take ownership, so showcase your leadership skills and any achievements in previous roles.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure you communicate your skills and experiences effectively without unnecessary fluff.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at our waterfront venue.
How to prepare for a job interview at Recruit Cumbria
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Make sure you’re familiar with the venue's menu and any special dishes they offer. Be ready to discuss your own culinary creations and how you can elevate their offerings. This shows your passion for food and your commitment to quality.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a Head Chef, leading a team is crucial. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed a kitchen team in the past. Highlight your approach to training and developing staff, as well as how you handle busy services while maintaining high standards.
✨Discuss Cost Control Strategies
Be prepared to talk about your experience with managing stock, controlling GP margins, and minimising waste. Share specific strategies you've implemented in previous roles that have led to cost savings without compromising on quality.
✨Emphasise Food Safety Knowledge
Since food safety and hygiene are paramount, brush up on relevant regulations and best practices. Be ready to discuss how you ensure compliance in the kitchen and how you train your team to uphold these standards.
