At a Glance
- Tasks: Inspire and lead your kitchen team to deliver exceptional dining experiences.
- Company: Join Wagamama, a vibrant restaurant group celebrating individuality and inclusivity.
- Benefits: Earn up to £8,000 bonus, enjoy free meals, and receive private medical insurance.
- Other info: Enjoy a family-friendly policy and exciting opportunities for personal growth.
- Why this job: Be a wok star and make a real impact in a dynamic culinary environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in kitchen management and a passion for developing team talent.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Three whole decades of acting different, we don’t conform, we celebrate difference. Appreciating personality over perfection – we call it be you, be wagamama. With over 165 restaurants, we are looking for a head chef to join us on our continuous journey to nourish us all from bowl to soul.
The role:
- As a head chef you’ll inspire your team to go the extra mile for our guests, keeping expectations and standards high.
- You will be continuously coaching and developing your team to be the best they can be whilst driving performance and delivering amazing results.
- If you prioritise cultivating a positive and inclusive work culture through emotional intelligence, inspiration, and effective delegation.
- Your ability to influence and empower emerging leaders shines through as you provide brilliant training, coaching, and mentorship.
- Are dedicated to excellence in guest experience, ensuring every dish is prepared to exceptional standards whether through your own efforts or by equipping your team with the necessary skills and mindset.
- Are experienced in ensuring your kitchen’s food, health and safety standards are spotless, understanding the financial performance of a kitchen including gross profit, stock control and labour costs, spotting opportunities and being proactive.
- Focus on building and nurturing your team, from recruitment to ongoing development, you are committed to fostering personal and professional growth among your team members.
- You care about creating an inclusive environment where your team feel respected and that they belong, allowing them to nourish and flourish in their role and career.
- A forward-thinking problem solver, able to think on your feet and make quick decisions.
We'd love to hear from you.
Wok’s in it for you:
- Bonus scheme – up to £8,000 a year bonus opportunity.
- Wagamama food allowance.
- Private medical insurance.
- Free food on shift – yes anything from our menu! Plus 50% outside of work to treat your friends and family.
- An industry-leading family-friendly policy (any expectant person or anyone adopting a child will receive 26 weeks full pay and 13 weeks half pay).
- Be the first to experience our brand-new menus.
- Dry-cleaned chef whites provided every shift.
- Wagamama parties throughout the year with VIP guests.
- Be known nationwide as a wok star – our national recognition programme.
In addition to this, we offer all the usual such as pension scheme, holiday, training, cycle to work scheme, retail and leisure discounts, discounted gym memberships and long service awards. Wagamama is proudly part of disability confident.
head chef in London employer: wagamama
Wagamama is an exceptional employer that champions individuality and inclusivity, making it a vibrant place to work as a head chef. With a strong focus on personal and professional growth, employees benefit from comprehensive training, a generous bonus scheme, and a supportive work culture that prioritises emotional intelligence and team development. Located in a dynamic restaurant environment, Wagamama offers unique perks such as free meals, private medical insurance, and industry-leading family-friendly policies, ensuring that every team member feels valued and empowered to thrive.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land 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 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!
