At a Glance
- Tasks: Create and innovate seasonal menus while leading a passionate kitchen team.
- Company: Join a welcoming pub with a rich history in Winchester.
- Benefits: Enjoy free meals, discounts, and a solid pension scheme.
- Other info: Access to culinary masterclasses and opportunities for personal development.
- Why this job: Showcase your culinary creativity and make a real impact on the dining experience.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Head Chef or Sous Chef with a passion for food.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 € per year.
The Westgate is a welcoming pub with rooms located at the top of the High Street in Winchester. Overlooking the historic town centre, we offer a traditional style British pub experience with a selection of local ales, quality dining, boutique rooms and a warm welcome guaranteed.
Being a Head Chef at Young's means that you'll be writing your own recipes that match the food vision of your business using fresh seasonal ingredients. The food vision could be all about showcasing local produce, country pub classics, seafood, small plates and sharers, dry‑aged meat – each pub is different and it's up to you as head chef to put your own creative stamp on that vision. We work with fresh, seasonal produce, so the menu should constantly evolve to showcase these fantastic ingredients when they are at their best. Premium fresh food crafted by skilled chefs in Premium Pubs.
What we offer our Head Chefs:
- Full autonomy to create your own menus and specials
- Access to our Apprenticeship Scheme and Development Programmes
- Access to regular culinary masterclasses covering topics such as Game, Butchery and Shellfish
- Access to inspirational food trips with our top quality suppliers
- Regular Chef Forums with other Head Chefs to inspire and develop
- Free meals
- 20% discount in all Young's Pubs and 30% discount on overnight stays in our Pubs with Rooms
- Share save Scheme
- Enhanced Company Pension Scheme
- 28 Days Holiday per year
What we look for in a Head Chef:
- Someone that can inspire a team, to bring out the potential and lead by example whilst being able to develop, cost and produce fresh seasonal menus for the variety of revenue streams within the business.
- Experience championing excellent service through quality food either as a Head Chef or in the position of Sous Chef
- A passion for leading and developing a team
- An active hands‑on team player with excellent communication skills
- Responsible and able to manage the kitchen staff rota, training and all health and safety effectively at all times
- Ability to demonstrate creativity and design and deliver new dishes for our menus and daily specials
- Great planning and organisational skills, necessary to maintain effective controls with regard to both GP and labour
- A pro‑active approach to driving sales and delivering growth, through engagement with both kitchen and front of house teams
Skills:
- Menu Development
- Food Safety
- Food Preparation
Head Chef in Winchester employer: Young's Pubs
At Young's, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering our Head Chefs the unique opportunity to craft their own menus using fresh, seasonal ingredients while leading a passionate team in a vibrant pub environment. Located in the heart of historic Winchester, our work culture fosters creativity and collaboration, with access to culinary masterclasses, development programmes, and a supportive community of fellow chefs. Enjoy competitive benefits including free meals, generous discounts, and a commitment to your professional growth in a welcoming and dynamic setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef in Winchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to fellow chefs, suppliers, and even local food bloggers. You never know who might have a lead on the perfect Head Chef position or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your culinary creativity! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, share your unique menu ideas and how you’d use fresh, seasonal ingredients. This will help them see your vision and passion for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply – engage! If you’re interested in a position at Young's, visit the pub, try the food, and chat with the staff. This shows your genuine interest and gives you a chance to make a memorable impression.
✨Tip Number 4
Keep learning and growing! Attend culinary masterclasses or workshops to sharpen your skills. Mention these experiences during interviews to show that you’re committed to your craft and always looking to improve.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Chef in Winchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Creativity:As a Head Chef, we want to see your unique culinary flair! When writing your application, don’t hold back on showcasing your creative ideas for menus and specials. Let us know how you’d use fresh, seasonal ingredients to craft dishes that reflect your vision.
Highlight Your Leadership Skills:We’re looking for someone who can inspire and lead a team. In your application, share examples of how you've successfully managed a kitchen team in the past. Talk about your approach to training and developing staff, as well as how you foster a positive working environment.
Be Specific About Your Experience:When detailing your experience, be specific! Mention any relevant roles you've held, particularly as a Head Chef or Sous Chef. Highlight your achievements in menu development, food safety, and managing kitchen operations to show us you’ve got what it takes.
Apply Through Our Website:Ready to take the plunge? We encourage you to apply through our website for a seamless application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and get to know you better. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to join our fantastic team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Young's Pubs
✨Showcase Your Culinary Creativity
As a Head Chef, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to create unique menus. Prepare a few sample dishes or menu ideas that highlight your use of fresh, seasonal ingredients. This will not only show your creativity but also your understanding of the pub's food vision.
✨Know Your Ingredients
Familiarise yourself with local produce and seasonal ingredients relevant to the area. Be ready to discuss how you would incorporate these into your menus. This shows your commitment to quality and your ability to adapt to what’s available.
✨Lead by Example
Prepare to talk about your leadership style and how you inspire your team. Share specific examples of how you've developed kitchen staff in the past or how you've handled challenges. This will demonstrate your hands-on approach and excellent communication skills.
✨Understand the Business Side
Be prepared to discuss how you would manage costs and drive sales through your menu. Familiarise yourself with concepts like GP (Gross Profit) and labour management. Showing that you can balance creativity with business acumen will set you apart.
