IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) · Hospitality & Catering

IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) Chef Interview

Complete guide to the Chef interview at IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) — real questions, insider tips, salary data, and stage-by-stage preparation.

Recruitment ongoing with roles available throughout the year. Application-to-offer typically 3-4 weeks.

5 stages

12 questions

Practise this interview free

Overview

Interviewing for Chef at IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group)

Interviewing for a Chef position at IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) is a distinct experience from applying to the same role elsewhere. IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) with 15,000+ employees, has built a structured hiring process that reflects both the demands of the Chef role and the company's own values and culture. The process is designed to assess not just whether you can do the job technically, but whether you'll thrive in IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group)'s specific working environment.

For Chefs specifically, IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) assesses a blend of role-specific expertise and alignment with the company's working style. Interviewers want to see evidence that you've delivered measurable results in similar settings and that you understand the particular challenges Chefs face in the hospitality sector. Come prepared to discuss specific examples from your experience, not generic talking points.

Understanding what IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) values — and how that translates into their interview expectations for a Chef — gives you a significant advantage. This guide breaks down the full process, the specific questions you're likely to face, and how to prepare effectively.

Process

How IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) interviews Chefs

IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group)'s interview process for Chef roles typically runs 3-4 weeks and involves 5 distinct stages. The process begins with application review and progresses through increasingly focused assessments. Each stage is designed to evaluate different aspects of your suitability — from baseline qualifications through to cultural alignment and role-specific capability.

For Chef candidates, the process is structured to assess both your technical competence and your fit within IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group)'s team. Expect a mix of competency-based questions testing relevant experience, scenario-based discussions probing your judgement, and conversations about your career goals. IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) looks for candidates who can demonstrate impact from previous roles and articulate how they'd contribute here.

Application Review

CV and application screened for relevant hospitality experience and brand fit

Tailor your application specifically for the Chef role at IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group). Highlight experience with Advanced cooking technique, Food safety and allergen awareness, Knife skills and food preparation and use language that mirrors their job description. IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) receives high volumes of applications, so a generic CV will be filtered out.

Telephone Interview

Initial interview with HR or hiring manager covering motivation, experience, and suitability

Research IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group)'s approach to this stage. Prepare specific examples from your Chef experience that demonstrate the qualities they value: brand stewardship, guest-centric approach, operational excellence.

Video or In-Person Interview

Conversation with hotel or department manager covering operational knowledge and customer service approach

Senior Candidate Assessment

For manager+ roles, may include brand standards assessment, property visit, or scenario discussion

Prepare concrete examples of your Chef work. Demonstrate your analytical thinking and attention to detail. IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) values candidates who can structure their approach clearly and explain their reasoning.

Offer & Background Check

Final offer confirmation and standard background verification

Qualities

What IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) looks for in Chefs

Brand Stewardship

IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) values brand stewardship because Understanding and commitment to brand values and standards. Ability to maintain consistency in guest experience. Pride in protecting and enhancing brand reputation through service excellence..

For the Chef role, show this by sharing examples where you used Advanced cooking technique or Food safety and allergen awareness to deliver measurable results.

Guest-Centric Approach

IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) values guest-centric approach because Genuine focus on understanding and exceeding guest expectations. Ability to personalise service, anticipate needs, and resolve issues to guest satisfaction. Commitment to creating loyalty..

For the Chef role, show this by sharing examples where you used Advanced cooking technique or Food safety and allergen awareness to deliver measurable results.

Operational Excellence

IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) values operational excellence because Strong attention to detail, procedures, and quality standards. Ability to manage complex operations efficiently. Commitment to health, safety, and regulatory compliance..

For the Chef role, show this by sharing examples where you used Advanced cooking technique or Food safety and allergen awareness to deliver measurable results.

Leadership Capability

IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) values leadership capability because Ability to lead teams, develop talent, and create positive workplace culture. Fair and inclusive management approach. Willingness to coach and mentor team members..

As a Chef, demonstrate this through Coaches junior staff; motivates team; maintains composure under pressure; commands respect.

Strong technical cooking skills and culinary knowledge

For Chef roles specifically, strong technical cooking skills and culinary knowledge is essential because Excellent knife skills, technique, consistency; understands cuisines, ingredients, and cooking methods.

Prepare 2-3 examples from your experience that clearly demonstrate strong technical cooking skills and culinary knowledge. IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group)'s interviewers will probe this in behavioural questions.

Questions

IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) Chef interview questions

Tell us about your experience with hotel operations

IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) asks this to assess your fit for the Chef role and alignment with their values.

Frame your answer around your Chef experience specifically. Reference IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group)'s values or recent projects to show you've done your research.

How would you ensure compliance with health and safety standards?

IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) asks this to assess your fit for the Chef role and alignment with their values.

Frame your answer around your Chef experience specifically. Reference IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group)'s values or recent projects to show you've done your research.

Describe a time you've gone above and beyond for a guest

IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) asks this to assess your fit for the Chef role and alignment with their values.

Frame your answer around your Chef experience specifically. Reference IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group)'s values or recent projects to show you've done your research.

What attracted you to IHG and which of our brands interests you?

IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) asks this to assess your fit for the Chef role and alignment with their values.

Frame your answer around your Chef experience specifically. Reference IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group)'s values or recent projects to show you've done your research.

Video Interview Practice

Choose your interview type

Your question

“Tell me about yourself and what makes you a strong candidate for this role.”

30s preparation 2 min recording Camera + mic

Preparation

How to prepare for your IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) Chef interview

Preparing for a Chef interview at IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) requires a dual focus: you need to master the role-specific technical requirements and understand how IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) operates as an organisation. Start by thoroughly reviewing the job description and mapping your experience against every requirement. For each skill or qualification listed, prepare a specific example from your career that demonstrates competence — ideally with quantifiable outcomes.

On the role-specific side, ensure you can discuss Advanced cooking technique, Food safety and allergen awareness, Knife skills and food preparation, Kitchen management and organisation with confidence and provide concrete examples. IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) values candidates who can connect their technical skills to business outcomes, so prepare to explain not just what you did, but the measurable impact it had.

Research IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) beyond their website: read recent news, check their Glassdoor reviews (their rating is 3.7/5), and look at what current employees say about working there. Understanding their culture helps you frame your answers authentically and ask informed questions — interviewers notice when a candidate has done their homework versus when they're winging it.

Preparation checklist

1Review the Chef job description in detail and map each requirement to a specific example from your experience
2Research IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group)'s recent news, strategic direction, and hospitality position over the last 12 months
3Prepare 6-8 examples using situation-action-result structure covering: brand stewardship, guest-centric approach, operational excellence
4Practise discussing your experience with Advanced cooking technique, Food safety and allergen awareness, Knife skills and food preparation, Kitchen management and organisation in concrete, outcome-focused terms
5Prepare 3-5 thoughtful questions about the Chef role, team structure, and IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group)'s direction — avoid questions answered on their website
6Review IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group)'s values and culture: Brand Stewardship and Guest-Centric Approach — prepare examples showing alignment
7Review industry trends in hospitality that could affect IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group)'s business and the Chef function
8Plan your interview logistics: know the format (in-person/remote), dress code, and who you're meeting — check LinkedIn for interviewer backgrounds if known

The role

Working as a Chef at IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group)

A typical day as a Chef at IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) blends the core responsibilities of the role with IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group)'s specific working culture and pace. In an organisation of 15,000+ employees, you'd be part of a structured team with clear reporting lines, regular meetings, and established processes. IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group)'s hospitality focus means the work carries a results-oriented rhythm where impact is measured and visible.

Your day would typically involve prepare and cook dishes according to recipes and plating standards, ensuring consistency, quality, and adherence to timing during service.. At IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) specifically, this work is shaped by their emphasis on brand stewardship and guest-centric approach, so expect collaborative working, regular check-ins, and an environment where proactive contribution is noticed and rewarded.

Compensation

Chef salary at IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group)

Typical range

£28,000–£40,000 (typically above market average)

Chef salaries at IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) tend to sit at the upper end of the UK market. IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) offers structured pay bands with clear progression tied to performance reviews and promotions. The UK average for Chefs ranges from £22,000–£26,000 at junior level to £45,000–£70,000+ for experienced professionals, and IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group)'s positioning within that range reflects their hospitality standing and location.

Beyond base salary, IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) offers a benefits package that includes Competitive pension scheme, Complimentary or discounted stays at IHG properties worldwide, F&B discounts at IHG hotels, Staff dining and meals, Life assurance. For Chefs specifically, the total compensation package including pension, holiday, and professional development support adds meaningful value beyond the headline salary figure.

Application

How to apply for Chef at IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group)

Getting through the door for a Chef role at IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) starts well before the interview. IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) typically advertises roles on their careers page and major job boards, but for competitive positions, a direct referral from a current employee can significantly improve your chances. If you know anyone at IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) — or can connect through LinkedIn or industry events — a warm introduction carries more weight than a cold application.

Your application should speak directly to the Chef requirements and IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group)'s stated values. Focus on outcomes and measurable impact. IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) receives many applications for Chef positions, so specific achievements (revenue, efficiency, growth metrics) differentiate you from candidates who only describe responsibilities.

Write a cover letter that names IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) and the Chef role explicitly — generic applications are obvious and get filtered. Reference something specific about IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group): a recent project, their market position, or a strategic direction that aligns with your experience. Keep it to one page and lead with your strongest relevant achievement.

Common mistakes to avoid

1Applying with a generic CV that doesn't mention IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) or the specific Chef requirements — tailoring your application is non-negotiable here
2Not researching IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group)'s values and interview style — candidates who can't articulate why they want to work specifically at IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) rarely progress past first-round
3Preparing only generic Chef examples without connecting them to IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group)'s hospitality context and priorities
4Underestimating the cultural fit assessment — IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group)'s interviewers give significant weight to whether you'll thrive in their specific environment
5Failing to prepare thoughtful questions — asking nothing, or asking questions easily answered on IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group)'s website, signals a lack of genuine interest in the role

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

How long does the IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) Chef interview process take?

IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group)'s interview process for Chef roles typically takes 3-4 weeks. This varies depending on the seniority of the role and the number of candidates at each stage. Some candidates report faster timelines when there's an urgent hiring need.

What salary can a Chef expect at IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group)?

Chef salaries at IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) range from £22,000–£26,000 for junior positions to £45,000–£70,000+ for experienced professionals. IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) generally offers competitive packages with structured pay progression.

What does IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) look for in Chef candidates?

IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) prioritises brand stewardship, guest-centric approach, operational excellence when hiring Chefs. Beyond technical competence, they value candidates who align with their company culture and can demonstrate measurable impact from previous roles.

Is it hard to get a Chef job at IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group)?

IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) is a competitive employer for Chef positions. The selection process is rigorous but fair — candidates who prepare thoroughly and demonstrate genuine interest in the role and company have a strong chance. The key differentiator is preparation: candidates who research IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) specifically and connect their experience to the role's requirements consistently outperform those who don't.

What's the best way to prepare for a Chef interview at IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group)?

Start by researching IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group)'s values, recent news, and hospitality position. Prepare 6-8 structured examples from your Chef experience covering brand stewardship and guest-centric approach. Practise discussing your technical skills (Advanced cooking technique, Food safety and allergen awareness, Knife skills and food preparation) with specific outcomes. Prepare thoughtful questions about the role and team.

Does IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) offer graduate or entry-level Chef positions?

IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) typically offers structured graduate programmes and entry-level Chef pathways. Check their careers page for current openings — application windows for graduate schemes often close 6-12 months before the start date.

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