At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic kitchen team and ensure every dish meets our high standards.
- Company: Join wagamama, a brand that celebrates diversity and innovation in the culinary world.
- Benefits: Earn up to £8,000 bonus, enjoy free food, and access wellness support.
- Other info: Embrace a culture of good change and personal growth at wagamama.
- Why this job: Inspire your team while creating delicious dishes in a vibrant environment.
- Qualifications: Experienced head chef with strong leadership and communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 30000 £ per year.
The role as a head chef at wagamama you'll lead your kitchen team in the wagamama way, live and breathe our people promise, values and embody core leadership behaviours. You’ll be responsible for ensuring that every dish served by the kitchen team meets our high standards. You’ll look after the development and growth of your team through inspiring leadership, ensuring they are engaged, motivated, and high performing.
Our perks and quirks:
- Bonus scheme: up to £8,000 a year bonus opportunity
- Private medical insurance and pension scheme
- Dedicated 6-week training programme
- Dry-cleaned chef whites provided every shift
- £14 - £25 of free food allowance on every shift
- 50% discount at wagamama and 30% off all other trg brands with family and friends
- Internal progression opportunities: fully funded apprenticeship programmes to support your growth
- 28 days holiday
- Kintsugi wellness: access to councillors, cycle to work scheme, discounted gym and leisure
- Family friendly policy: any expectant person or anyone adopting a child will receive 26 weeks full pay and 13 weeks half pay
- Financial wellbeing support: access to loans repaid through your salary for those ‘strapped for cash’ moments in life
What we look for:
- An experienced head chef that is able to lead a kitchen team through positive behaviour and actions to drive performance in a fast paced and complex environment
- A strong communicator that has real conversations with consideration and care, ensuring your team feel heard and supported
- Experienced in ensuring your kitchen’s food, health and safety standards are spotless
- Experienced in understanding the financial performance of a kitchen including gross profit and stock control
- Comfortable managing the labour cost of your team, reacting to changing demands where necessary
- Passionate about creating an inclusive environment where your team feel respected and that they belong
- An individual who leads to inspire and engage their team to nourish and flourish in their role and career
The wagamama way: kaizen, meaning ‘good change’, is the philosophy that sits at the core of who we are. It shapes every dish we create and pushes us to find better ways in all we do. Our food, how we think, how we work, it has to be fresh. Committed to championing change in both our communities and the impact on the planet. Three whole decades of acting different, we don’t conform, we celebrate difference. Appreciating personality over perfection. Welcoming everyone and their unique story to our benches. We promise to have your back. Working together to build close bonds of trust and support. Creating safe spaces where we can have real conversations with open hearts and open minds. All we ask is for you to dish up what makes you different. Be you, be wagamama.
designate head chef in London employer: wagamama
Wagamama is an exceptional employer that prioritises the growth and well-being of its team members, offering a vibrant work culture rooted in inclusivity and support. As a designate head chef, you'll benefit from a comprehensive training programme, generous bonuses, and a range of perks including free meals and wellness support, all while leading a passionate kitchen team dedicated to delivering high-quality dishes. With a commitment to personal development and a family-friendly policy, Wagamama fosters an environment where you can truly thrive both professionally and personally.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land designate head chef 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 wagamama. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to wagamama
Don't be shy about reaching out to wagamama 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 designate head chef 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 wagamama 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 wagamama
✨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!
