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- Tasks: Lead a dynamic kitchen team, create seasonal menus, and oversee food service for various occasions.
- Company: The Pilgrm, a creative and independent hotel brand in London.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 28 days holiday, staff meals, and discounts on food and drinks.
- Other info: Enjoy a supportive culture and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team and make your mark in a vibrant hospitality environment.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef with strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
The Pilgrm is looking for a passionate and experienced Head Chef to lead our kitchen team and oversee our food offering across breakfast, brunch, evening service, and private events. We are looking for someone creative, organised, calm under pressure, and genuinely passionate about hospitality, seasonal food, and leading a team. This is a hands-on role for a chef who enjoys both the operational and creative side of running a kitchen.
The Role
As Head Chef, you will take full ownership of the kitchen operation, ensuring consistently high standards of food, service, cleanliness, and team culture. You will work closely with the management team on menu development, food cost control, GP targets, staffing, and private events. You will lead by example in the kitchen while creating a positive and supportive working environment for the team.
Working Pattern
- 48 hours per week
- 5 days per week
- Ideally Wednesday to Sunday
- Typical shift pattern: 6:30am - 3:00pm
Salary & Benefits
- Competitive salary
- 28 days holiday
- Staff meals on duty
- Staff discounts across food and drinks
- Opportunity to be part of a creative and independent hotel brand
- Supportive and collaborative working environment
Responsibilities
Kitchen & Service
- Lead the day-to-day kitchen operation across breakfast, brunch, evening service, and private events
- Develop seasonal menus and new dishes aligned with The Pilgrm style and guest expectations
- Ensure consistency, quality, and presentation across all food service
- Train, support, and motivate the kitchen team
- Maintain high standards during busy service periods while keeping a calm and organised kitchen
- Work closely with the front-of-house team to ensure smooth and friendly service
Stock, GP & Financial Control
- Take responsibility for kitchen GP and food cost targets
- Manage stock ordering, supplier relationships, and deliveries
- Minimise waste through effective prep, portion control, and stock management
- Monitor labour costs and rota efficiency in line with business levels
- Review monthly P&L reports with management and identify areas for improvement
Private Events
- Oversee the food offering for private events and special occasions
- Create event menus tailored to guest requirements and dietary needs
- Ensure smooth planning and execution of all event catering
- Work closely with FOH and management teams during event service
Health & Safety
- Maintain full compliance with food hygiene, HACCP, and health & safety standards
- Ensure kitchen cleanliness and organisation at all times
- Manage allergen procedures and food safety standards across the kitchen
- Ensure all equipment is used correctly and maintained properly
Team & Culture
- Create a positive, supportive, and professional kitchen culture
- Support team development through training and feedback
- Encourage teamwork and strong communication across departments
- Attend training sessions and contribute to the overall development of the hotel operation
About You
- Previous experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef in a quality-led hospitality environment
- Strong understanding of food cost control, GP, and kitchen financials
- Confident leading a team in a fast-paced environment
- Organised, proactive, and calm under pressure
- Passionate about seasonal food, hospitality, and guest experience
- Excellent understanding of food hygiene, HACCP, and health & safety procedures
Please note: due to the nature of hospitality, flexibility is required and additional duties may occasionally be requested by the management team.
Head Chef employer: The Pilgrm Hotel
Contact Detail:
The Pilgrm Hotel Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the hospitality industry, attend local events, and join online forums. You never know who might have a lead on the perfect Head Chef position!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your culinary skills! Consider hosting a pop-up event or a tasting session to showcase your creativity and passion for seasonal food. This can really set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and scenarios you might face as a Head Chef. Think about how you’d handle busy service periods or develop a new menu – this will help you shine when it counts!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing passionate chefs who are eager to join our team at The Pilgrm!
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 hospitality shine through. Share your experiences that highlight your creativity and passion for seasonal ingredients. We want to see what makes you tick!
Be Specific About Your Experience: Don’t just list your previous roles; tell us about the specific responsibilities you had and how they relate to the Head Chef position. We’re looking for someone who can lead a team and manage kitchen operations, so give us the details!
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the values and style of The Pilgrm. Mention how your approach aligns with our focus on quality and guest experience. We appreciate when candidates take the time to connect their skills with our mission.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Pilgrm Hotel
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you’re familiar with The Pilgrm's style and current menu offerings. Think about how you can contribute to seasonal menu development and be ready to share your ideas on new dishes that align with their vision.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Head Chef, leading a team is crucial. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed kitchen teams in the past, especially during busy service periods. Highlight your ability to create a positive working environment and how you motivate your team.
✨Demonstrate Financial Acumen
Be ready to discuss your experience with food cost control and GP management. Bring specific examples of how you've managed stock ordering, supplier relationships, and minimised waste in previous roles. This will show that you understand the financial side of running a kitchen.
✨Emphasise Your Passion for Hospitality
Let your passion for seasonal food and hospitality shine through. Share stories that illustrate your commitment to guest experience and how you’ve gone above and beyond to ensure customer satisfaction in your previous roles.