At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare and cook delicious pizzas while learning from experienced chefs.
- Company: Join The Great Decoy, a vibrant new pub in Hampshire.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible hours, paid overtime, and 50% off food for you and friends.
- Other info: Opportunities for training, career progression, and fun team events await!
- Why this job: Be part of a supportive team that values your growth and passion for food.
- Qualifications: A love for cooking and a positive, team-oriented attitude.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 30000 £ per year.
The Great Decoy is our newest opening and our first pub in Hampshire. Set in the heart of the Test Valley, it's the kind of village that deserves a great local pub. Its name is rooted in the area's wartime history. During the Second World War, local people helped build a network of decoy installations — fake runways and dummy lights designed to draw enemy aircraft away from strategic targets. Ordinary people coming together to do something extraordinary. We thought that story was worth preserving.
We’re looking for a Pizza Chef to join our kitchen team. If you enjoy cooking proper food, take pride in the details and want to keep learning, you’ll fit in well here. You’ll work closely with the Head Chef and Sous Chef, helping to deliver consistent, honest food while building your own skills along the way.
A respectful kitchen is non-negotiable for us. We want people to enjoy coming to work, and that starts with how teams treat each other. There are no split shifts. Overtime is paid. Uniform is provided and laundered. If you want to progress, there’s a clear pathway and the support to help you get there. We offer flexible working patterns that fit around your life, not the other way round.
Every penny of service charge is shared across the whole team — chefs, front-of-house and housekeeping included — with complete transparency through your own Grateful account. If you work a six-hour shift, you eat from the menu. Away from work, you'll enjoy 50% off food at any of our pubs for you and up to five guests. We close on Christmas Day. Each year, we bring everyone together for the Annual Chickpea Awards Bash to celebrate the people who make the business what it is. On your birthday, you'll receive a £100 voucher to spend at any of our pubs. There are also monthly rewards and giveaways, including the chance to win a night away at one of our places. We recognise long service too. Throughout the year, we organise team trips and away days, from visits to local suppliers to trips abroad.
If you're ambitious and want to develop, we'll build a training programme around you. Whether that's WSET qualifications, apprenticeships, leadership development or broadening your skills across the business, the opportunities are there for those who want them. We're committed to helping people build long and rewarding careers in hospitality. And because life isn't always straightforward, you'll also have access to confidential 24/7 support for your mental, physical and financial wellbeing. Whenever you need someone to talk to, help is there.
What you'll be doing:
- Preparing and cooking pizzas to a high standard during service.
- Working alongside the Head Chef and Sous Chef to develop your knowledge and confidence in the kitchen.
- Maintaining excellent food hygiene and health and safety standards.
- Keeping your section organised, stocked and running smoothly.
- Taking pride in every plate that leaves the pass.
- Playing your part in a kitchen that works hard, looks after each other and enjoys what it does.
What we're looking for:
- A genuine love of food and a willingness to learn.
- Someone who cares about the details and wants to get things right.
- A reliable, positive attitude and a strong work ethic.
- A team player who enjoys supporting others and contributing to a good kitchen culture.
We aren't interested in fussy food or big egos. We keep things simple and do them well. If you're looking for a place where you can learn, develop and cook great food with a good team around you, we'd love to hear from you.
Pizza Chef employer: The Great Decoy
At The Great Decoy, we pride ourselves on fostering a respectful and supportive work environment where every team member is valued. With no split shifts, paid overtime, and a commitment to employee growth through tailored training programmes, we ensure that our Pizza Chefs not only enjoy their work but also have clear pathways for advancement. Located in the picturesque Test Valley, our pub offers a unique opportunity to be part of a community-focused establishment that celebrates exceptional hospitality and teamwork.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Pizza 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 The Great Decoy. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to The Great Decoy
Don't be shy about reaching out to The Great Decoy 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 Pizza 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 The Great Decoy 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 The Great Decoy
✨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!
