At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead kitchen operations and ensure exceptional food quality in a fast-paced environment.
- Company: Join KAUAI, part of the Virgin Active brand, focused on health and nutrition.
- Benefits: Earn £16.60 per hour with employee discounts and ongoing training.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with great career progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on healthy eating while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Head Chef or Kitchen Manager; strong leadership and communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 16.6 - 16.6 £ per hour.
Please double check you have the right level of experience and qualifications by reading the full overview of this opportunity below.
Chiswick Riverside | Full-Time | £16.60 per hour
KAUAI, part of the Virgin Active brand, is passionate about health and wellbeing and promises to deliver nothing but the very best in food and nutrition. Serving the best quality ingredients means bringing to customers real food that is, where possible, free of GMO's and has no additives, preservatives, artificial colourants and flavourants. We make health and healthy eating habits accessible and exciting.
We are seeking an experienced and motivated Head Chef to lead the kitchen operations within our growing quick service restaurant business. This is an exciting opportunity for a strong leader who thrives in a fast-paced hospitality environment and is passionate about food quality, operational excellence, and team development.
About the RoleAs Head Chef, you will take full responsibility for the daily management of the kitchen, ensuring exceptional food standards, efficient service, and full compliance with food safety regulations. You will lead and inspire your team while supporting business performance through effective stock and labour management.
Key Responsibilities- Lead and manage all kitchen operations
- Deliver consistent food quality and service standards
- Train, coach, and develop kitchen staff
- Ensure compliance with food hygiene and health & safety standards
- Manage stock, ordering, and food cost controls
- Maintain a clean, organised, and high-performing kitchen environment
- Previous experience as a Head Chef or Kitchen Manager/Sous Chef in a QSR or high-volume hospitality environment
- Strong leadership and communication skills
- Excellent understanding of UK food safety regulations
- Ability to work efficiently under pressure
- Passion for delivering high-quality food and service
- Level 3 Food Hygiene qualification desirable but training is provided
- ~£16.60 per hour
- ~ Career progression within a growing business
- ~ Employee discounts
- ~ Ongoing training and development
- ~ Supportive and dynamic working environment
Head Chef / Chef in Westminster employer: Virgin Active
At Virgin Active, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a vibrant and health-focused work culture. As a Wellness Café Team Member at KAUAI in the UK, you'll enjoy a supportive environment that encourages personal growth, offers competitive benefits like staff discounts and complimentary gym memberships, and promotes teamwork among passionate individuals dedicated to enhancing customer experiences.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef / Chef in Westminster
✨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 Virgin Active. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Virgin Active
Don't be shy about reaching out to Virgin Active 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 Head Chef / Chef in Westminster
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 Virgin Active 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 Virgin Active
✨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!
