Kitchen Manager / Chef
Location: Clacton-on-Sea, Essex
Salary From: £32,000 - £35,000 per annum
Hours: Up to 50 hours per week, including evenings, weekends, and bank holidays as required
Job Overview
New opening venue is seeking an experienced and motivated Kitchen Manager / Chef to lead our kitchen operation and deliver high-quality food and service standards. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing all aspects of the kitchen, including food preparation, menu delivery, stock control, food safety compliance, and team supervision.
This is a hands-on role requiring strong leadership, excellent organisational skills, and a passion for producing consistently high-quality dishes while maintaining an efficient and profitable kitchen.
Key Responsibilities
Kitchen Operations
- Prepare, cook, and present food to a consistently high standard.
- Oversee the day-to-day running of the kitchen.
- Ensure all food is prepared and served in accordance with company standards.
- Maintain cleanliness, organisation, and efficiency throughout the kitchen.
- Assist in developing menus and seasonal/weekly specials.
Team Management
- Lead, motivate, and supervise kitchen staff.
- Assist with recruitment, training, and development of kitchen team members.
- Prepare staff rotas to ensure appropriate kitchen coverage.
- Foster a positive and professional working environment.
Stock & Cost Control
- Manage stock ordering, deliveries, and inventory levels.
- Monitor food costs and minimise waste.
- Ensure correct storage and rotation of stock.
- Maintain supplier relationships and source quality ingredients at competitive prices.
Food Safety & Compliance
- Ensure full compliance with Food Hygiene Regulations and Health & Safety legislation.
- Maintain accurate food safety records and documentation.
- Conduct regular checks to ensure all kitchen equipment is safe and operational.
- Ensure compliance with allergen legislation and company procedures.
Customer Service
- Work closely with front-of-house staff to ensure excellent customer experiences.
- Respond professionally to customer feedback regarding food quality and service.
- Maintain high presentation standards and consistency across all menu items.
Requirements
- Previous experience as a Chef, Head Chef, Kitchen Manager, or similar role.
- Strong knowledge of food hygiene, allergen management, and kitchen safety procedures.
- Excellent organisational and time-management skills.
- Ability to work under pressure in a busy kitchen environment.
- Strong leadership and team management abilities.
- Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate (minimum); Level 3 desirable.
- Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and bank holidays.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary from £32,000 per annum.
- Full-time permanent position.
- Opportunity to lead and develop the kitchen operation.
- Staff meals whilst on duty.
- Paid holiday entitlement.
- Supportive and friendly working environment.
Closing date 31st July 2026, Interviews to be arranged week starting 10th August 2026.
To apply, please submit your CV and a brief covering letter outlining your relevant experience and suitability for the role.
Pay: £32,000.00-£35,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Company events
- Discounted or free food
- Employee discount
- Free parking
- On-site parking
Experience:
- Kitchen management: 1 year (preferred)
Licence/Certification:
- Level two or three food safety certificate (preferred)
Work Location: In person
