At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a vibrant kitchen team and create delicious Mexican dishes from scratch.
- Company: Wahaca, a top Mexican restaurant founded by a MasterChef winner.
- Benefits: 70% off food, £100 probation bonus, and quarterly bonuses.
- Other info: Enjoy fun events, personal development, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Join us to inspire your team and deliver unforgettable dining experiences.
- Qualifications: Experience in a kitchen leadership role and a passion for fresh food.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 £ per year.
Our story: Wahaca is a leading Mexican restaurant in the UK, founded by Thomasina Miers (MasterChef winner) and Mark Selby. Inspired by their time in Mexico, their mission is to show the UK how vibrant and delicious Mexican food is, championing great British produce and sourcing ingredients locally. Rooted in our founders' values, we serve a taste of Mexican sunshine through showing pride, staying humble, choosing integrity, having fun, and thinking positively. With an upbeat atmosphere and chef made dishes, we believe every meal should be an adventure and every guest a friend.
As Head Chef, you bring our food philosophy to life on every plate, setting the tone in the kitchen and building a culture of pride and accountability. We're looking for a hospitality leader who will play a pivotal role in driving our brand standards forward and inspiring their team to deliver a WOW-worthy experience for every guest.
How you'll drive success:
- Work alongside your General Manager to maintain the highest food safety standards.
- Lead, manage and develop a strong kitchen team including Sous Chef, section chefs, prep chefs and kitchen assistants.
- Inspire and guide your team by leading from the front, always ready to step in and support, ensuring all guests are served up a taste of Mexican sunshine.
- Champion a positive environment and deeply care about your team, supporting their growth and progression.
- A passion for fresh food - our dishes are made from scratch using seasonal ingredients, and you'll ensure our chefs are fully trained to follow recipes and maintain the highest standards.
- Take ownership for stock control and ordering and confidently manage systems that support daily operations.
People do their best work when they feel looked after inside and outside of work - because when our teams thrive, so do our guests. Creating a supportive, inclusive and energising environment is just as important to us as delivering great food and service. That's why we offer a range of great benefits:
FINANCIAL:
- 70% off food and 50% off drinks when dining at Wahaca with up to 3 friends.
- £100 to celebrate your probation in Wahaca.
- Up to £1,000 through friend referrals.
- Quarterly bonus scheme.
- Enhanced maternity, paternity, adoption pay.
- Early access to wages, financial support and discounts through Stream.
HEALTH AND WELLBEING:
- Free, nutritious meal every time you work, freshly made by our talented chefs.
- Cycle to work scheme.
- Support from our trained Mental Health First Aiders.
- Time off for when needed; like your child's first day at school.
- Sabbatical - 4 weeks paid off work - every 5 years.
DEVELOPMENT:
- Training courses: Mental Health First Aid, Food Safety LV 3.
- Inspirational trips with our co-founders.
- Own development plan - we are committed to growing our people from within.
SOCIAL:
- Unwind and turn up the fun at one of our many events across the year such as WOW Fest!
- Our very own Masterchef and Cocktail competitions.
- The fun is in your hands with allocated funds and time to drive the fun with your team.
If you're inspired by what you've read and have a passion for delivering exceptional hospitality, we'd be thrilled to have you join our team!
Head Chef in Blackburn employer: Wahaca
Wahaca is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being and growth of its team members, offering a vibrant work culture where creativity and passion for fresh, seasonal ingredients thrive. As Head Chef, you'll not only lead a talented kitchen team but also enjoy fantastic benefits such as generous discounts, a supportive environment, and opportunities for personal development, all while contributing to a mission that celebrates the joy of Mexican cuisine. Join us in creating memorable dining experiences where every meal is an adventure and every team member is valued.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef in Blackburn
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the Wahaca vibe! Before your interview, dive into their story and values. Show us how you can bring that Mexican sunshine to life in the kitchen and connect with our mission.
✨Tip Number 2
Be ready to share your culinary journey! We want to hear about your experiences leading a kitchen team and how you've inspired others. Bring examples of how you've created a positive environment and delivered WOW-worthy experiences.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your passion for fresh food! Talk about your favourite seasonal ingredients and how you incorporate them into your dishes. We love chefs who are excited about cooking from scratch and using local produce.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to get noticed and show us you’re serious about joining the Wahaca family. Plus, it makes it easier for us to keep track of your application!
We think you need these skills to ace Head Chef in Blackburn
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Food:When writing your application, let your love for fresh, vibrant food shine through! Share your experiences with seasonal ingredients and how you’ve brought a taste of sunshine to your previous kitchens.
Highlight Your Leadership Style:We want to know how you inspire and develop your team! Talk about your approach to leading from the front and creating a positive environment where everyone can thrive. This is key for us at Wahaca!
Be Authentic:Don’t be afraid to show your personality in your application. We value integrity and humility, so let us see the real you! Share stories that reflect your values and how they align with our mission.
Apply Through Our Website:Make sure to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and get the ball rolling on your journey with Wahaca. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Wahaca
✨Know Your Mexican Cuisine
Brush up on your knowledge of Mexican food and ingredients. Be ready to discuss your favourite dishes, how you would incorporate seasonal produce, and any unique twists you might bring to Wahaca's menu. This shows your passion for fresh food and aligns with their mission.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led a kitchen team in the past. Highlight your approach to inspiring and developing your team, as well as how you create a positive environment. Wahaca values a supportive culture, so demonstrate how you embody that.
✨Emphasise Food Safety Standards
Familiarise yourself with food safety regulations and be prepared to discuss how you would maintain these standards in the kitchen. Mention any relevant certifications you hold, as this will show your commitment to excellence and accountability.
✨Bring Your Fun Side
Wahaca is all about having fun while delivering great food. Think of ways you can contribute to the team's spirit and morale. Whether it's through team-building activities or creative ideas for events, share how you can help foster an energising atmosphere.
