At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a talented kitchen team to create exceptional dining experiences.
- Company: Join Starwood Hotels, a luxury brand committed to sustainability and excellence.
- Benefits: Enjoy free meals, wellness perks, discounts, and career growth opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a caring culture that values teamwork and community engagement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a beautiful environment while developing your culinary skills.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Head Chef or in a high-quality kitchen is essential.
The predicted salary is between 24750 - 30250 £ per year.
Grow with us...
Life at Starwood Hotels is based on a simple idea: the world is beautiful and we want to keep it that way.
But we can’t do it alone.
That’s why hiring thoughtful and inspiring Team Members and Leaders who understand that our people, collaboration, stellar service, and respect for nature are so important to us.
The purpose of the
Head Chef role is to establish 1 Hotel Mayfair as a world class operation with a reputation for excellence in menu design, food quality, team leadership, training and development.
You will be responsible for managing the day-to-day operation of all hotel food outlets whilst achieving company objectives in regards to food standards, menu development and creativity, food margin percentage, waste reduction, cost control and people development.
- Principle Responsibilities
- Provide exemplary leadership to the kitchens brigade and develop to its fullest potential
- Support the development, knowledge, skills and abilities of chefs at all levels and establish a culture of continuous improvement and development
- Establish training and development systems focused on excellence and promoting people development
- Ensure all new team members are provided with appropriate training and integrated into the team in a timely a supportive way
- Working with the kitchen team to ensure full compliance to statutory requirements in relation to Health and Safety, Food Hygiene standards as laid down by food authorities
- Implement appropriate and cost-effective structures within the kitchen while maintaining the required quality standards and creativity objectives
- Ensure consistent delivery and the highest standards of food are achieved at all times
- Identify opportunities to optimize operational efficiency, create value, and challenge existing processes through innovation and thoughtful change
- Foster open, collaborative relationships across departments within 1 Hotel Mayfair.
- Escalate maintenance issues to the relevant parties, ensuring that employees are always working within a safe environment
- Deliver ad-hoc tasks as requested by the Senior Leadership team
- Guest complaints are kept at an absolute minimum and customer satisfaction at a maximum.
- All policies and procedures are up - to - date and communicated to the team, with training on the job carried out on a regular basis.
- Ensure that the Back of House and Front of House teams work efficiently together
- Staff turnover is kept to a minimum and within the company’s average %.
- Food hygiene standards including calorie and allergen information are established and communicated properly
Qualifications & Skills
- Previous experience as a Head Chef or similar role within a luxury hotel or high-quality restaurant environment.
- Strong knowledge of food preparation, cooking techniques, and kitchen operations.
- Understanding of HACCP and food safety regulations.
- Excellent organisational and time-management skills.
- Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment.
- Strong communication and teamwork skills.
Why Choose Us?
Our culture is caring and thoughtful, and we deliver good-natured, informed service, perfectly executed to evoke a sense of fulfilment and well-being.
As part of our team, you can look forward to a variety of activities and perks that support your passion for hospitality and nature:
- A “Designed by Nature” work environment
- Free healthy & nutritious meals on duty
- 24-hour Employee Assistance Program
- Flu vaccinations vouchers
- Eye care contributions
- Social events throughout the year
- Wedding and Baby gifts
- Travel season ticket loan
- Complimentary Spa Massage & Reflexology treatment
- West End Club - discounts in local shops, hotels, bars and restaurants
- Spa, Food & Beverage discounts ranging from 30% - 50%
- Guest experience stay - enjoy an overnight stay and experience our restaurant and bars
- Opportunities to be involved in charity and community events
- All Starwood Hotels discounted employee/friends and family room rates
- Enhanced Holiday Benefit
- Team Member Recognition program - Earn rewards and pay it forward, while doing all the good you can!
- SH University - Offers eligible team members a chance to grow and flourish from obtaining professional development and courses/certifications through our exclusive online learning educational platform
- Career Advancement: Were growing rapidly and with growth comes advancement opportunities (around the globe)!
- Team Member Recognition program - Earn rewards and pay it forward, while doing all the good you can
Terms & Conditions apply to all benefits.
About us...
As a mission-driven company, our purpose is our true north, and our compass guides the way.
The purpose we live by impacts the lives of our team members, drives the experiences for our guests, builds community with like-minded travelers and takes care of the planet we live in.
Founded in 2006 by Barry Sternlicht, Starwood Hotels is a luxury hotel brand management company and affiliate of global private investment firm Starwood Capital Group.
Starwood Hotels is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
We believe in a diverse, sustainable workforce with an empowered, inclusive culture.
We are committed to non-discrimination on any protected basis covered under applicable law.
If you require any special accommodations, please visit People Operations.
Head Chef employer: Starwood Hotels
At Starwood Hotels, we pride ourselves on fostering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that prioritises collaboration, creativity, and respect for nature. As a Banqueting Manager at our Treehouse Manchester, you will not only lead a passionate team in delivering exceptional service but also enjoy numerous benefits such as career advancement opportunities, wellness programmes, and a supportive environment that encourages personal growth. Join us in creating memorable experiences while being part of a mission-driven company that values diversity and sustainability.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef
✨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 Starwood Hotels. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Starwood Hotels
Don't be shy about reaching out to Starwood Hotels 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
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 Starwood Hotels 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 Starwood Hotels
✨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!
