At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the kitchen, create seasonal menus, and ensure top-notch food quality.
- Company: Join The White Horse, a renowned pub in Hascombe known for its fantastic food and service.
- Benefits: Enjoy menu autonomy, culinary masterclasses, free meals, and a 20% discount at all Young’s pubs.
- Other info: Access to an Apprenticeship Scheme and regular chef forums for inspiration and growth.
- Why this job: Be part of a vibrant team, showcase your creativity, and make an impact in a historic pub.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Head Chef or Sous Chef with a passion for leading and developing teams.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Head Chef
About us:
Steeped in history, the White Bear theatre pub has been on this site since c.1780, serving great beer and ales. After an impressive refurbishment in 2016, the White Bear's interior is a stunning blend of traditional charm and modern design, complete with an eclectic collection of artwork and bric-a-brac.
Read on to fully understand what this job requires in terms of skills and experience If you are a good match, make an application.
On the original wooden bar, you'll find a fantastic selection of craft beers, ales and lagers, alongside an extensive wine list and a carefully curated collection of spirits and whisk(e)y.
But we're not just about drinks! We are proudly food-led, serving high-quality, seasonal dishes that showcase the best of British produce, with a focus on flavour, creativity, and elevated pub classics done right.
When the sun shines, enjoy your favourite tipple in the beer garden, also home to our very own beehives.
Nearest public transport – Kennington.
About the role:
At The White Bear, we believe no two places should ever feel the same and that starts in the kitchen.
Our food vision is rooted in elevated classics, where traditional favourites are reimagined with creativity, precision, and a deep respect for British seasonality. From beautifully executed Sunday roasts to refined, flavour-led dishes, everything we serve is crafted using fresh, seasonal ingredients at their absolute peak.
This is a pub that is proudly food-led, where the menu is not static, but constantly evolving. As Head Chef, you'll have the freedom to shape that journey: creating dishes that reflect the character of the pub, the changing seasons, and your own culinary identity. Whether it's working with local produce, developing standout specials, or refining classics into something exceptional, your stamp will be felt in every plate that leaves the pass.
We don't just cook we create experiences. The White Bear is a place where great food, great atmosphere, and genuine hospitality come together, and the kitchen sits right at the heart of it all.
What we offer our Head Chef
- Full creative autonomy to design your own menus and daily specials
- Access to our Apprenticeship Scheme and Development Programmes
- Culinary masterclasses covering game, butchery, shellfish, and more
- Opportunities for inspirational supplier trips to connect with the best produce
- Regular Chef Forums to collaborate, inspire, and grow with other Head Chefs
- Free meals on shift
- 20% discount across all Young's pubs and 30% off stays in our pubs with rooms
- Share Save Scheme
- Enhanced Company Pension Scheme
- 28 days holiday per year
What we're looking for in our Head Chef
We're looking for a leader who brings energy, creativity, and genuine passion for food someone who wants to make The White Bear a destination known for outstanding, elevated dining. xohmjla
- Proven experience delivering high-quality, fresh food as a Head Chef
- A natural ability to inspire, mentor, and develop a team, leading by example every day
- Hands-on approach with excellent communication and leadership skills
- Strong organisational skills to manage rotas, training, and kitchen operations seamlessly
- A sharp eye for GP, labour control, and kitchen efficiency
- The creativity and confidence to design dishes that stand out and keep guests coming back
- A proactive mindset, working closely with front of house to drive sales, grow the business, and elevate the guest experience
At The White Bear, this isn't just a Head Chef role, it's an opportunity to own the food identity of a truly food-led pub, push standards, and build something people talk about long after they've left.
Head Chef (Hiring Immediately) employer: Young's
At The White Horse in Hascombe, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that values creativity and teamwork. Our vibrant work culture fosters personal growth through access to culinary masterclasses and development programmes, while our commitment to locally sourced produce allows you to showcase your culinary talents in a stunning countryside setting. Join us for a rewarding career where your passion for hospitality and food can truly shine.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef (Hiring Immediately)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the local produce and suppliers in the Surrey area. Understanding the ingredients available will not only help you create seasonal dishes but also show your commitment to the pub's ethos of using locally sourced produce.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with other chefs and hospitality professionals in the region. Attend local food events or culinary workshops to build relationships that could benefit your role as Head Chef and demonstrate your passion for the industry.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your vision for the menu during the interview. Think about how you can elevate traditional pub fare while incorporating seasonal ingredients, and be ready to share specific ideas that align with the pub's identity.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your leadership skills by preparing examples of how you've successfully developed a kitchen team in the past. Highlight your experience in training staff and managing kitchen operations to demonstrate your capability to inspire and lead.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Chef (Hiring Immediately)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in kitchen management, menu creation, and team leadership. Emphasise any previous roles as a Head Chef or Sous Chef, showcasing your ability to inspire and develop a team.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Write a cover letter that reflects your passion for seasonal cooking and your vision for the menu at The White Horse. Mention specific dishes or concepts you would like to introduce, demonstrating your creativity and understanding of the pub's ethos.
Showcase Your Culinary Skills:If possible, include a portfolio of your best recipes or dishes you've created. This could be in the form of photos or descriptions that highlight your culinary style and ability to create elevated countryside classics.
Highlight Leadership Experience:In your application, emphasise your experience in managing kitchen staff, training new team members, and ensuring health and safety standards. Provide examples of how you've successfully led a team in a high-pressure environment.
How to prepare for a job interview at Young's
✨Showcase Your Culinary Creativity
Prepare to discuss your previous experiences in creating seasonal menus and unique dishes. Bring examples of recipes you've developed that highlight your creativity and understanding of local produce.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
Be ready to share specific instances where you've successfully led a kitchen team. Highlight how you inspire and develop your staff, as well as how you handle training and health and safety management.
✨Understand the Business Side
Familiarise yourself with cost control and revenue generation strategies. Be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to driving sales and managing kitchen operations effectively.
✨Engage with the Pub's Vision
Research The White Horse and its community focus. Show enthusiasm for their plans and express how your vision aligns with theirs, particularly in terms of elevating the pub's food offerings.
