At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic kitchen team and create delicious dishes from scratch.
- Company: Join Stonegate Group, the UK's largest pub operator with a vibrant culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy discounts, flexible working, and early access to your wages.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace that values individuality and offers growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Shape the dining experience and mentor a passionate team in a historic venue.
- Qualifications: Proven culinary skills and leadership experience in a fast-paced environment.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
About Us
Stonegate Group is the UK’s largest operator of pubs, bars, and late-night venues, including Slug & Lettuce, Be At One, and Popworld, to name a few. We’re proud of our diverse portfolio and deeply committed to creating an inclusive culture that embraces individuality in all its forms—including neurodiversity. By fostering an environment where everyone feels welcome, valued, and supported, we reflect the vibrant communities we serve and empower our people to thrive.
Danson Stables is a traditional pub serving delicious food and drinks in the heart of Danson Park, housed in an original Grade‑II listed 1700s building.
We’re looking for a skilled Head Chef or Sous/Senior Sous Chef who is ready to take the next step in their career. In this leadership role, you’ll play a key part in shaping the dining experience at Danson Stables, helping create a thriving, well‑run kitchen while mentoring and supporting your team as they develop.
Qualifications
- A high standard of food knowledge and skill with full fresh ingredients from scratch
- A born leader who wants to drive a team of hardworking, friendly, and ambitious chefs toward excellence
- Up‑to‑date with COSHH, Food Safety, H&S, and legal knowledge
- A willingness to develop on a personal level while propelling the brigade forward at Danson Stables
Responsibilities
- Hiring and onboarding new team members in an inclusive and welcoming manner
- Leading, guiding, and developing your kitchen team, ensuring they have access to ongoing training and growth opportunities
- Maintaining high standards of kitchen hygiene and food safety, creating a safe and organised workspace for all
- Managing the kitchen schedule to ensure efficient staffing while meeting labour targets
- Conducting regular stock checks to ensure cost management and meet performance goals
- Taking a proactive approach to increasing sales and driving growth by fostering strong relationships between kitchen and front‑of‑house teams
About the Venue
We're a small batch of handpicked locals – your home for British hospitality. Regardless of the occasion, we’re here to serve great‑tasting food and drink, with our guests at the heart of everything we do. Our food menu brims with a range of British classics and inspired indulgences. Our drinks span fine wines, spirits, cocktails and, of course, pale ales and craft beers, bringing Bexley Heath the best in regional, local and seasonal specials – including Bexley’s own beer! Whether our guests are joining us for pub lunch, a pint by the fire pit in our secret garden, a large celebration or just a simple day out, Danson Stables is the perfect spot for it.
Benefits
- Reward Card via the MiXR App – 25% off food and drink for you and all your friends across our managed estate
- Stonegate Xtra Rewards – Online benefits portal offering discounts across the High Street and other retailers
- VIP entry to our pubs and bars
- Stonegate hotel discounts
- Flexible working
- David Lloyd corporate discount rates
- Discounted dental insurance
- Stream – early access to your earned wages
- Referral scheme of up to £1,000 per person
If you have a disability as outlined by the Equality Act 2010 and require reasonable adjustments to be made during the recruitment process, please let us know in advance so that any support, aids or adaptations can be put in place to assist you. Please contact Danson Stables directly.
Head Chef in London employer: Stonegate Group
At Stonegate Group, we pride ourselves on being the UK's largest operator of pubs and bars, offering a vibrant work culture that champions inclusivity and individuality. As the Head Chef at Danson Stables, you'll not only lead a passionate kitchen team but also benefit from ongoing training and development opportunities, flexible working arrangements, and a range of employee perks including discounts and rewards. Join us in creating memorable dining experiences in a historic setting while enjoying the support and camaraderie of a dedicated team.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to fellow chefs and industry contacts on social media or at local events. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Consider hosting a pop-up event or cooking demo to showcase your culinary talents. This not only gets your name out there but also gives potential employers a taste of what you can bring to their kitchen.
✨Tip Number 3
Tailor your approach! When reaching out to potential employers, mention specific dishes or concepts that align with their menu. This shows you're genuinely interested and have done your homework on their establishment.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at Danson Stables, where we value passion and creativity in the kitchen.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Chef in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Culinary Skills:When you're writing your application, make sure to highlight your food knowledge and experience with fresh ingredients. We want to see how you can bring your unique flair to the kitchen at Danson Stables!
Be a Leader:As a Head Chef, leadership is key! Share examples of how you've guided and developed your team in the past. We love seeing candidates who are passionate about mentoring others and creating a positive kitchen environment.
Know Your Stuff:Make sure to mention your up-to-date knowledge of COSHH, Food Safety, and Health & Safety regulations. This shows us that you take kitchen safety seriously and are ready to maintain high standards at Danson Stables.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and get to know you better. Plus, it makes the whole process smoother for everyone involved!
How to prepare for a job interview at Stonegate Group
✨Know Your Ingredients
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of fresh ingredients and cooking techniques. Be ready to discuss how you source quality produce and how you can elevate the menu at Danson Stables with your culinary skills.
✨Show Your Leadership Style
As a Head Chef, you'll need to lead a team. Think about examples from your past where you've successfully mentored or developed team members. Share these stories during the interview to showcase your leadership style and how you can inspire others.
✨Understand the Venue's Vibe
Familiarise yourself with Danson Stables and its offerings. Be prepared to discuss how you would contribute to the pub's unique atmosphere and how you can enhance the dining experience for guests while maintaining high standards.
✨Be Ready for Practical Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that test your problem-solving skills in a kitchen environment. Think about how you would handle staffing issues, maintain hygiene standards, or manage stock effectively. This will show your readiness for the role.
