At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the kitchen team and ensure top-notch food quality in a vibrant pub setting.
- Company: The Old Cock Inn, a charming pub with a relaxed atmosphere and boutique accommodation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 28 days holiday, discounts, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Enjoy a great working environment with excellent prospects for growth.
- Why this job: Join a fun, supportive team and make your mark in a well-known expanding company.
- Qualifications: 18 months as Sous Chef in a busy environment with a passion for food.
The Old Cock Inn is a delightful pub & restaurant in the heart of Harpenden, offering guests the added benefit of six boutique bedrooms. We have a stylish and cosy restaurant, a relaxed and informal bar area with a roaring log fire for the colder months, and our lovely terrace garden at the back. We’re what you might call a ‘proper pub’ serving a selection of real ales and craft beers, alongside an extensive wine, gin and spirit list.
Your role as Sous Chef:
- Work closely with your head chef to effectively control stock and food GP, and identify opportunities to maximise profitability.
- Responsible for all food production ensuring that food is prepared to an exemplary standard.
- Overall accountability for hygiene and health and safety within the kitchen.
- Ensuring all team members are fully trained and aware of how food is stored, rotated and disposed of and monitoring their adherence.
- To ensure that food and labour costs are effectively managed in order to achieve a strong food margin and labour within budget.
- Responsible for the recruitment, training, coaching and development of the kitchen team to ensure the delivery of excellent food quality and guest satisfaction.
- To train and coach the front of house team to ensure that they have a good knowledge of all menu items so that our guest service is of the highest standards.
- Ensure that company policies and procedures are followed by checking Food Safety and Health & Safety daily and Business Due Diligence on a weekly basis.
- Complete daily and weekly stock checks and ensure that all invoices are processed daily and accounted for.
What we are looking for:
- Min 18 months as Sous Chef with a background in a busy food operation and passion for food quality.
- The ability to deliver to excellent standards in a fast paced and pressurised environment.
- Leadership qualities including motivating your team through holding regular and engaging team meetings and briefs.
- A role model and a vision to inspire the kitchen team.
- Have a desire to develop your career with a well known and expanding company.
We will offer you a great package:
- £34,000 - £38,000
- 28 days holiday
- Company Pension scheme
- Retail and beer discounts
- Fun culture surrounded by a supportive team
- 50% off food on shift
- Refer a friend Bonus
- Employee Assistance programme
- Benefits portal
- Career development programme
- 30% dining discount of all managed houses
- Great working environment and great prospects!
Sous Chef - The Old Cock Inn - Harpenden, Hertfordshire employer: Wells & Co
Wells & Co. is an outstanding employer located in the picturesque Stratford-upon-Avon, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises exceptional customer service and employee satisfaction. With competitive pay, generous benefits including 28 days of holiday, and ample opportunities for career growth, we foster an environment where passionate individuals can thrive and make a meaningful impact in the hospitality industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sous Chef - The Old Cock Inn - Harpenden, Hertfordshire
✨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 Wells & Co. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Wells & Co
Don't be shy about reaching out to Wells & Co 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 Sous Chef - The Old Cock Inn - Harpenden, Hertfordshire
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 Wells & Co 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 Wells & Co
✨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!
