At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire teams across multiple sites, ensuring exceptional culinary experiences.
- Company: Join London's biggest independent pub company with a vibrant culture.
- Benefits: 30% discount at all venues, career progression, and fun team events.
- Other info: Enjoy a supportive atmosphere with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a creative environment while developing future culinary leaders.
- Qualifications: Experience as an Operations Chef or Area Chef with strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
Executive Chef - UPB Head Office
Executive Chef - Award winning pub, bar and restaurant group.
Our executive Chefs play a pivotal role in the success of our business.
Working closely alongside an Operations Manager you will manage up to 10 sites maintaining a close relationship and support to your teams, enabling them to deliver their magic.
Our people are the key to our success, therefore your team will be your absolute number 1 priority, spotting amazing Chef talent; having aces in the right places, celebrating success; creating a real buzz and a sense of belonging for our team, plus developing great Head Chefs and leaders through training, coaching and mentoring.
We're all about fresh seasonal produce, daily specials, creativity and passion whilst running a profitable kitchen.
Who we are
Welcome to London's biggest independent pub company !
Urban Pubs & Bars was founded in 2014 and has since expanded to an estate of over 67 pubs, bars and restaurants across London.
In 2018, Urban Pubs & Bars was ranked number 28 in the Sunday Times Virgin Atlantic Fast Track 100 list, recognising Britain's private companies with the fastest-growing sales.
We were then nominated for 2 Publican Awards in 2020, winning the award for 'Best Managed Pub Company - 2-50 sites' on the night.
In 2021, Urban was awarded 'Best Food-led Pub Company 2021' at the R200 awards, Urban once again won 'Best Managed Pub Company - 2-50 sites' in 2023 and most recently won 'Best Managed Pub Company - 2-50 sites' and Best food offering in 2026 and In 2025 & 2026 we were recognised by Sunday Times in the Top 100 Companies to work for.
What's it all about
Ideally, you will already have multi-site hospitality experience as an Operations Chef / Area Chef from another business.
- You Believe in yourself and your leadership, in your team, in bringing people together and our vision.
You believe that delivering a great experience, making sure our customers leave happy and our teams loving what they do.
- You're honest and approachable, you're a master of "buy in" and sometimes that means having those tough decisions to get the best from your team.
- Care for your team: You genuinely care and are interested in the people that work for you.
You know how to keep your team motivated and engaged and how to get the best out of them, flexing your leadership style.
For those wanting to progress you can help and support them grow and reach their aspirations.
- Command the detail: You're all over the stocks, rotas, labour, H&S, lightbulbs, the nooks and crannies of the sites - delivering uncompromising standards both front and back of house, and knowing what part everyone plays.
- Never settle: For second best that is.
You obsess about learning from yesterday and getting better, in each site, every single day from every opportunity and helping your team to do the same.
- Do it your way: You lead your team and your businesses through your own unique style and personality, making it your own.
You don't look for robots but recruit and develop people that bring their true selves to work as we champion a culture of collaboration and creativity.
What's in it for me
- Training and development
- Career progression and promotion opportunities with regular new openings around the corner
- Get out and about, you automatically get 30% discount across all our pubs, bars and restaurants
- Team trips, regular incentives and socials - a fun, family atmosphere
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) to support you across those tough times
- Good people know good people - an awesome referral scheme where you can earn up to 1000 per successful referral
- Birthdays are for celebrating, so have the day off on us
- Cycle to work scheme
• End-of-Year Annual Staff Party & Prize draws!
- Enhanced Maternity & Paternity Leave - commitment to working families for our salaried management ensuring that greater financial support is offered for important life moments.
- Health Care Cash Plan - We want you to feel empowered to manage your everyday healthcare costs
Interested in hearing more, get in touch as we looking to move quickly!!
Executive Chef - UPB Head Office in London employer: Urban Pubs & Bars
Urban Pubs & Bars is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that celebrates creativity and teamwork in the heart of London. With a focus on employee growth, you will have ample opportunities to develop your leadership skills while enjoying the dynamic atmosphere of a busy pub environment. Join us to be part of a passionate team dedicated to delivering outstanding guest experiences and fostering a fun, engaging workplace.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Executive Chef - UPB Head Office in London
✨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 Urban Pubs & Bars. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Urban Pubs & Bars
Don't be shy about reaching out to Urban Pubs & Bars 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 Executive Chef - UPB Head Office in London
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 Urban Pubs & Bars 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 Urban Pubs & Bars
✨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!