At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a vibrant kitchen, crafting seasonal pub dishes with creativity and consistency.
- Company: A renowned food-led country pub in Hertfordshire with a strong local following.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, tips, performance bonuses, and temporary accommodation if needed.
- Other info: Great opportunity for growth and to make a real impact on the pub's success.
- Why this job: Take ownership of the menu and kitchen culture in a well-respected pub environment.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef in quality pub settings.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 48000 £ per year.
We are working with a beautiful food-led country pub in Hertfordshire that is looking for a strong Head Chef to lead the kitchen and help move the business forward. This is a 2 AA Rosette pub operation with a strong local following, rooms, and a well-established reputation for seasonal, produce-led pub food. The food is not fine dining, but standards matter. The offer needs to resonate with proper pub cooking, done with care, consistency and imagination.
The heart of the menu needs to stay strong. A Sunday roast that people come back for. Seasonal specials that show personality. Menus that feel fresh, well-written and commercially sensible. This is a brilliant role for a Head Chef who understands what makes a great pub kitchen work. The business is currently doing around £22,000 to £24,000 per week, with scope to grow towards £30,000 per week. Sundays are already a major part of the offer, with around 200 covers for roast service.
The right person will bring structure, confidence and energy. You will need to be hands-on, calm under pressure and comfortable leading from the front. This role is not about overcomplicating the food. It is about delivering great pub dishes with consistency, training the team properly, and building a kitchen culture that can grow.
The ideal Head Chef will have:
- Experience as a Head Chef or strong Senior Sous Chef in a quality pub, gastro pub or relaxed restaurant
- A background in fresh food kitchens with strong seasonal menus
- Ideally experience in a 1 AA Rosette, 2 AA Rosette, Bib Gourmand or quality-led pub environment
- Strong team leadership and training skills
- Good menu writing ability
- A clear understanding of GP, labour, stock, ordering and kitchen standards
- The confidence to improve systems without losing the identity of the pub
- A genuine passion for British pub food done properly
This would suit someone from a quality independent gastro pub, a premium pub group, or a relaxed food-led restaurant where standards matter but the atmosphere stays warm and accessible.
The package includes:
- £45,000 to £48,000 basic salary
- Around £5,000 to £6,000 per year in tips
- Bonus on top, based on performance targets
- Temporary accommodation available if needed
- Strong platform to grow the food sales
- Well-known pub with a strong reputation
- Opportunity to put your stamp on the menu and kitchen culture
This is a great opportunity for a Head Chef who wants ownership, creativity and the chance to lead a proper pub kitchen with genuine room to grow.
Job Tenure: Permanent
Head Chef – Letchworth employer: Wagstaff Recruitment
Wagstaff Recruitment is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. With structured pay progression, comprehensive training, and a focus on work-life balance, this role in Durham provides a meaningful opportunity for healthcare professionals to make a difference while enjoying predictable hours and generous benefits.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef – Letchworth
✨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 Wagstaff Recruitment. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Wagstaff Recruitment
Don't be shy about reaching out to Wagstaff Recruitment 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 – Letchworth
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 Wagstaff Recruitment 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 Wagstaff Recruitment
✨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!
