FAQ's

We offer a range of staffing solutions to our clients, including:

• Hospitality Recruitment
• Temporary Staffing (e.g., Relief and Agency Chefs)
• Enhanced DBS-Checked Chefs for Care and Education Settings

If you are a jobseeker, looking for either temporary or permanent work, you can visit our career site here.

For Clients looking to find staff, click here to contact us.

A hospitality recruitment agency like Chefs for Chefs can provide additional resources to any recruitment campaign, plus the also work with a wider network of chefs as perspective candidates.

Although some chef agencies do deal with international placements, sadly at this stage we do not, we only operate in the U.K (currently)

If you need hospitality recruitment service, we can cover any role and help you fill them.

For our relief & enhanced DBS chef service, we cover any role from Chef de partie, to executive head chef (Catering assistant to head cook)

A thorough recruitment process in hospitality can be completed in as little as 7 days, this depends on many factors such as offering, time of year, location and so on. we endeavour to have each role filled as soon as possible.

Chef recruitment agencies have various models that they adopt, some are permanent recruitment led, some are temporary staffing led. At Chefs for Chefs, we are a hybrid chef agency, meaning we cover all services for our customers. For hospitality recruitment we charge a fee, typically a percentage of the candidates annual salary upon a successful placement.

For our relief chef service, we onboard and employ chefs directly, we then contract them to work at a clients premesis. We charge an hourly rate and have an agreed pay rate with the chef. Once the chef is paid from the charge rate and we make employment contributions such as pension and National insurance, the remaining money is our commission.

At Chefs for Chefs, we specialise in matching candidates with employers by focusing on the specific needs of both parties. We begin by understanding each employer’s unique requirements, from the type of food served to the kitchen culture and team dynamics. This includes a thorough vetting process where we assess candidates’ skills, experience, and career goals to ensure they align with the job and the venue. Our industry expertise and close relationships with both clients and candidates allow us to make placements that are tailored, sustainable, and beneficial for everyone involved

At Chefs for Chefs, assessing a candidate’s skills is a key part of our recruitment process. We begin by reviewing their experience, qualifications, and references to get a clear picture of their background.

Yes, at Chefs for Chefs, we have extensive experience placing candidates in fine dining and Michelin-starred restaurants. We work closely with high-end establishments, understanding the skill level, precision, and dedication required for these roles. Our team carefully matches chefs with the right experience and ambition to these prestigious kitchens, supporting them throughout the application process. Whether you’re a chef with fine dining experience looking to step into a Michelin-starred setting or an employer seeking top talent, we’re here to help make that connection

At Chefs for Chefs, our fees for hospitality recruitment services vary depending on the specific requirements of each placement. We typically charge a percentage of the candidate’s first-year salary, which is discussed and agreed upon upfront. Our pricing reflects the quality of service we provide, including thorough vetting, support throughout the hiring process, and ongoing communication with both clients and candidates. We believe in offering a transparent and fair pricing structure, ensuring you receive value for the investment in your recruitment needs.

When a candidate you’ve hired through Chefs for Chefs leaves, we have a supportive process in place. We encourage open communication with our clients to understand the reasons for the departure. If a candidate leaves mid-term under your selected package, any payment due after the termination date will cease to be owed, with no money exchanging hands. Our goal is to ensure you have the right talent for your kitchen, and we are committed to helping you find a suitable replacement if needed.

Hiring a relief chef through Chefs for Chefs is a straightforward process. Start by contacting us via our website or phone, where you can discuss your specific needs, including the duration, skills required, and any special requirements for the role. Once we understand your requirements, we will present suitable candidates from our pool of talented relief chefs.

At Chefs for Chefs, we understand that urgent requirements can arise, and we strive to respond quickly. Depending on availability, we can often provide a relief chef within 24 to 48 hours. Once you contact us with your urgent needs, we will work diligently to match you with a suitable candidate and facilitate the booking process as efficiently as possible. Our team is dedicated to ensuring your kitchen runs smoothly, even in short notice situations

Yes, at Chefs for Chefs, our relief chefs are available for both short-term contracts and single-day shifts. We recognise that kitchens often face fluctuating demands, and our flexible staffing solutions are designed to meet those needs. Whether you require a chef for a single event, a few days, or a longer-term placement, we can help you find the right candidate to support your kitchen operations

Relief chefs provided by Chefs for Chefs typically have a wealth of experience, with all candidates at the sous chef level or above. They come from various culinary backgrounds, including fine dining, hotels, restaurants, and catering services. This experience equips them with the skills needed to adapt quickly to new environments, manage kitchen operations, and maintain high standards of food quality. Our relief chefs are well-versed in various cooking techniques, menu planning, and food safety practices, ensuring they can seamlessly integrate into your team and provide the support you need.

Yes, relief chefs from Chefs for Chefs can step in for a head chef or executive chef role, provided they possess the necessary experience and skills. Many of our relief chefs have extensive backgrounds in leadership positions and are capable of managing kitchen teams, overseeing operations, and maintaining quality standards. When you contact us, we’ll assess your specific needs and ensure we match you with a relief chef who has the right qualifications to effectively fill the role and support your kitchen

Chefs for Chefs provides relief chef services across the UK, ensuring we can meet your needs no matter where you're located. We cover a wide range of shifts, including last-minute requests and longer-term placements. Additionally, we offer live-in accommodation options for relief chefs when needed, making it easier for you to fill shifts even in more remote locations. Our goal is to ensure you have the right support for your kitchen, wherever you are.

At Chefs for Chefs, we understand the importance of team dynamics and ensuring that a relief chef fits well within your kitchen team. To facilitate this, we offer several options:

1. Phone Interview: Before the assignment begins, we can arrange a phone interview between you and the relief chef. This allows you to discuss expectations and assess compatibility.
2. CV Submission: We will submit the chef's CV for your review prior to confirmation, giving you the opportunity to evaluate their experience and suitability for your team.
3. Customer Feedback Surveys: We conduct weekly feedback surveys during the assignment to monitor performance and address any concerns. This ensures ongoing communication and helps us make adjustments if needed.

Our aim is to ensure a smooth integration and a successful collaboration in your kitchen.

The typical rates for hiring a relief chef through Chefs for Chefs vary depending on the role and the chef's experience. However, our minimum charge rate starts at £24 per hour plus VAT. This rate encompasses several components, including:

• The chef's basic pay
• Holiday pay (12.07%)
• Employer's National Insurance (13.8%)
• Pension contributions (3%)
• Our agency fee

We ensure transparency in our pricing, so you can easily understand the value you’re receiving while securing the right talent for your kitchen.

No, at Chefs for Chefs, we do not charge fees to job seekers. Our services are designed to support candidates in finding suitable employment opportunities at no cost to them. We believe that everyone should have access to quality recruitment services without financial barriers. Instead, our fees are covered by the employers who engage our services, allowing us to focus on matching candidates with the right roles while ensuring a seamless experience for both job seekers and clients.

In the hospitality industry, qualifications can vary widely depending on the specific role and establishment. However, there are some common qualifications and certifications that are often beneficial:

1. Hospitality Qualifications: For chefs, qualifications from recognised hospitality schools or institutions can be advantageous. These may include diplomas or certificates in professional cookery.
2. Food Safety Certification: Most hospitality roles require knowledge of food safety practices, so qualifications such as Level 2 Food Hygiene are typically necessary.
3. First Aid Certification: While not mandatory for all roles, having a first aid certificate can be beneficial, especially in kitchen environments.
4. Experience: In addition to formal qualifications, relevant work experience is highly valued. Many employers look for candidates with hands-on experience in various kitchen roles.
5. Soft Skills: Strong communication, teamwork, and adaptability are essential qualities in the hospitality sector, which can sometimes outweigh formal qualifications.

At Chefs for Chefs, we appreciate candidates who combine qualifications with practical experience and a positive attitude, as these traits contribute to success in the hospitality industry.

At Chefs for Chefs, we offer both temporary and permanent positions in the hospitality sector. Our temporary placements are ideal for those seeking flexible work arrangements, such as relief chefs or short-term contracts. On the other hand, our permanent placements cater to employers looking for long-term talent to join their teams.

We understand that each establishment has unique staffing needs, and our goal is to provide tailored solutions that meet those requirements, whether for short-term support or permanent staffing.

You can apply for chef positions through Chefs for Chefs by visiting our careers site at jobs.chefsforchefs.co.uk. Here, you’ll find a range of available positions across the hospitality sector. Simply browse through the listings, select the roles that interest you, and submit your application directly through the site. Our team will review your application and get in touch to discuss potential opportunities that match your skills and experience. We look forward to helping you find your next role in the hospitality industry!

Yes, at Chefs for Chefs, we assist with both full-time and part-time roles in the hospitality industry. We understand that different establishments have varying staffing needs, whether it's for a full-time chef to join their team or part-time support for busy periods. Our flexible recruitment services allow us to cater to both types of positions, ensuring we find the right fit for your requirements. Whether you’re seeking a full-time commitment or a part-time solution, we’re here to help

No, at Chefs for Chefs, we do not offer international placements or sponsorships. Our focus is solely on the UK hospitality market, where we specialise in connecting chefs and hospitality professionals with local opportunities. If you’re looking for positions within the UK, we are here to support you in finding the right fit for your skills and experience.