Head Chef - Live In
£40,000, plus tronc and bonus.
Job Summary
We're looking for a head chef for The Victoria in Surbiton. You'll have experience working with fresh food, running all aspects of a kitchen, writing your own menus and creating dishes using seasonal produce, and leading a team alongside the General Manager.
Responsibilities
This role requires someone who can inspire a team, bring out their potential, lead by example, develop, cost and produce fresh seasonal menus for the variety of revenue streams within the business. Additional responsibilities include writing recipes that match the food vision of the pub, showcasing local produce, and putting your own creative stamp on the menu.
Qualifications
- Experience championing excellent service through quality food as Head Chef or Sous Chef.
- Demonstrated passion for leading and developing a team.
- Hands‑on team player with excellent communication skills.
- Ability to manage kitchen staff rota, training, and health & safety effectively.
- Creativity and ability to design and deliver new dishes for menus and daily specials.
- Great planning and organisational skills to maintain effective controls on GP and labour.
- Pro‑active approach to driving sales and delivering growth through engagement with kitchen and front‑of‑house teams.
Benefits
- Full autonomy to create menus and specials.
- Access to Apprenticeship Scheme and Development Programmes.
- Access to regular culinary masterclasses covering Game, Butchery and Shellfish.
- Inspiration food trips with top quality suppliers.
- Regular Chef Forums with other Head Chefs.
- Free meals.
- 20% discount in all Young's Pubs and 30% discount on overnight stays in Young's Pubs with Rooms.
- Share Save Scheme.
- Enhanced Company Pension Scheme.
- 28 days holiday per year.
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 The Victoria Surbiton. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to The Victoria Surbiton
Don't be shy about reaching out to The Victoria Surbiton 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!
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 Victoria Surbiton 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 Victoria Surbiton
✨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!
