At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the kitchen team to prepare and serve delicious meals.
- Company: Join Whitbread, a top name in the hospitality industry.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, discounts, and a £40 meal voucher on joining.
- Other info: Immediate start with excellent career progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Advance your culinary career with training and support in a fun environment.
- Qualifications: Catering experience and a passion for food are essential.
The predicted salary is between 14.91 - 14.91 £ per hour.
Come and be a Head Chef at Willen Dragon Brewers Fayre in Milton Keynes. Take the next step in your managerial career by working closely with our Kitchen Manager in leading our kitchen team to prepare, cook and serve our mouth‑watering meals. Immediate start, catering experience needed.
Pay Rate: Up to £14.91 per hour
Contract Type: FTC until 04/09/2026
Hours: 40 hours per week
Location: V10 Brickhill Street, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire, MK15 0DS
Why you’ll love it here:
- Training and support: We’ve got the user‑friendly equipment that will make your life easier from the start and the training that’ll give you a career path in our kitchens and beyond!
- Whitbread Benefits card: Enjoy up to 60% off Premier Inn rooms and 25% off meals in Whitbread Restaurants
- Pension and saving schemes: Company pension and save as you earn scheme
- Discounts: Get money off shops, your utility bills, travel, cinema trips, supermarkets and more
- Have a meal on us: You’ll receive a £40 voucher to spend in our restaurant when you join us
What you’ll do:
Join our team at Willen Dragon Brewers Fayre as a Head Chef, as part of the kitchen team cooking the dishes our guests love. Use your passion for food to move your career forward and be part of the UK’s leading hospitality business, Whitbread.
Kitchen - Head Chef employer: Whitbread Group
At Willen Dragon Brewers Fayre in Milton Keynes, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer that values your culinary skills and career growth. With comprehensive training, a supportive work culture, and fantastic benefits like discounts on travel and dining, we ensure our Head Chefs thrive in a rewarding environment while enjoying the perks of working for the UK's leading hospitality business.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Kitchen - Head Chef
✨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 Whitbread Group. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Whitbread Group
Don't be shy about reaching out to Whitbread Group 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 Kitchen - Head Chef
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 Whitbread Group 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 Whitbread Group
✨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!