Job Ref: UNI1544
Branch: Parker's Tavern
Location: Parker's Tavern, Cambridge
Salary/Benefits: Competitive Salary
Contract type: Permanent
Hours: Full Time
Hours per week: 42.5
Posted date: 28/08/2026
Closing date: 28/09/2026
SPONSORSHIP AVAILABLE
Sponsorship may be available under the Skilled Worker transitional arrangements for eligible applicants.
To be considered, applicants must meet all of the following requirements:
- You must have been granted your first Skilled Worker (or Tier 2 General) visa before 4 April 2024.
- You must have held continuous Skilled Worker permission since that date. Breaks in employment will mean you are not eligible.
- If your Skilled Worker permission has been cancelled, curtailed, or has expired without a valid continuation of permission, you may not qualify.
- Applicants who were granted their first Skilled Worker visa on or after 5 April 2024 are not eligible for the transitional arrangements.
Applicants will be asked to provide evidence of their immigration history to confirm they meet the transitional eligibility requirements.
The successful applicant will be responsible for paying their own Skilled Worker visa application fee, Immigration Health Surcharge and any associated personal immigration costs. The Company will pay all sponsorship costs that it is legally required to pay.
PAY
Base Salary per annum - £34,106.49 plus £7,500.00 per annum in Tronc.
No staff accommodation is provided.
ABOUT US
University Arms is a 192-bedroom design-led Hotel situated in the heart of Cambridge, United Kingdom. Overlooking Parker’s Piece is the Hotel’s quintessentially British Restaurant and Bar, Parker’s Tavern, Library Lounge, and beautiful 272 square metre wood-panelled Ballroom.
Opened in 1834 as a Coaching Inn, University Arms is Cambridge’s oldest Hotel. For 180 years, the Hotel was added to, updated, and modernised in line with the age; however, it was the reopening in 2018 after a four-year £80m full renovation that really positioned the Hotel. It is now Cambridge's 'go-to’ destination, alluring visitors with the promise of a sense of modern luxury.
THE ROLE
This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced pastry professional who combines strong technical skills with creativity and confident leadership. You’ll take ownership of the pastry section, developing outstanding desserts and baked products while ensuring the highest standards of quality, presentation, and organisation.
WHAT WILL YOU BE DOING
- Lead and manage the day-to-day pastry operation.
- Create and develop seasonal desserts, pastries and new menu ideas.
- Maintain consistently high standards of taste, presentation and quality.
- Train, support and inspire members of the pastry and kitchen team.
- Manage ordering, stock control, food costs and minimise waste.
- Ensure excellent food hygiene, allergen awareness and health safety standards.
- Work closely with the wider kitchen and management teams.
WHAT ARE WE LOOKING FOR IN YOU
- We are looking for a talented and ambitious Head Pastry Chef with essential experience gained in a high-quality 5-star operation (Minimum 2 years).
- An excellent standard of culinary techniques is required, and the ability to demonstrate innovation and creativity.
- Creative menu design/development and ideas.
- Extensive knowledge of various pastry techniques, flavours, and trends.
- Likes to be hands-on and lead the team from the front.
- Experience with GP, costing, wastage management, ordering, stock, etc.
- Likes to train and develop others.
- Knowledge of food safety and sanitation regulations, with the ability to uphold strict standards of cleanliness and hygiene.
- Competent level of English, spoken and written.
- Must be available to work a varied schedule including early late shifts, weekends, and bank holidays.
THE PERKS
As well as the opportunity to work with a fantastic team in an exceptional property, the position comes with:
- Competitive salary
- Free meals on duty
- Team Member Parties
- Room and FB discounts across the Marriott portfolio
- Refer a friend – who do you know who could be interested in a new role? When they are placed, you could earn up to £400 for referring them!
RIGHT TO WORK
If you don't require sponsorship - In line with UK immigration legislation, all applicants must have the right to work in the UK or be eligible to obtain permission to work under the Skilled Worker route. Documentary evidence of eligibility will be required as part of the recruitment process.
Why work at University Arms and Parker’s Tavern?
We are passionate about Cambridge’s heritage, and want to share that with our guests in a context that is contemporary, thoughtful and engaging. We deliver an experience of considered modern luxury, and take pride in our work. If you are enthusiastic about your city and your work in the hospitality sector you will find working at the University Arms truly rewarding.
