In a bid to attract the next generation of culinary superstars into the kitchen and tackle a recruitment drought, Buzzworks has released a bonus pot of £20,000 which both staff and customers can claim a share of.

It’s all about word of mouth and if a chef mentions it was a friend or family referral that urged them to apply – they could be given a cash bonus.

And as long as an offer of employment is made and they work within the business for at least three months, then the referrer will receive a generous cash sum directly from Buzzworks.

Bonuses range from £200 for a Commis Chef to £750 for referring a successful Head Chef candidate.

Trevor Garden, Buzzworks Chef Director, said: “With continuous development and ambitious plans on the horizon, we desperately need to match new recruits to our current vacancies of almost 50 chefs, in order for us all to thrive. We’ve surveyed our team and know what they want – flexible working, four day weeks and paid overtime – so that’s exactly what we offer, alongside a host of other attractive benefits encouraging a better work life balance.

“We know how powerful word of mouth can be so we are looking to our own people but also our communities to refer motivated and talented individuals – and we’ve released an impressive bonus pot to reward and thank successful referrals.

“Whether you know a college graduate keen for their first step on the ladder, an established chef looking to thrive in a new environment or a novice in the kitchen seeking a complete career

change – we’d love to hear from them.

“Candidates simply have to specify the friend or family member when applying and if they successfully complete their three month probation, we will be in touch with the referrer to arrange the bonus.”