Job Overview
We are looking for an experienced and motivated Kitchen Manager to oversee the day-to-day operation of our kitchen. The successful candidate will be responsible for leading the kitchen team, maintaining high standards of food quality and hygiene, managing stock and costs, and ensuring the kitchen operates efficiently and safely.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage and supervise the kitchen team, including chefs, cooks, and kitchen assistants.
- Organise breaks, and daily kitchen duties.
- Ensure all food is prepared, cooked, and presented to a consistently high standard.
- Maintain excellent food hygiene, health and safety, and cleanliness standards.
- Ensure compliance with food safety legislation, HACCP procedures, and company policies.
- Monitor stock levels, place orders, and manage deliveries.
- Control food costs, minimise waste, and maintain appropriate portion control.
- Carry out regular stock checks and maintain accurate kitchen records.
- Train, motivate, and develop kitchen staff.
- Monitor kitchen performance and address any issues promptly.
- Work closely with management and front-of-house staff to ensure smooth service.
- Create and maintain cleaning schedules and ensure all equipment is kept in good working order.
- Ensure allergen information and dietary requirements are managed correctly.
- Assist with menu planning, specials, and recipe development where required.
- Manage kitchen budgets and identify opportunities to improve efficiency and profitability.
- Lead by example and promote a positive, professional working environment.
Skills and Experience
- Previous experience in a Kitchen Manager, Head Chef, Sous Chef, or similar senior kitchen role.
- Strong knowledge of food safety, hygiene, and HACCP procedures.
- Excellent leadership and team-management skills.
- Good understanding of stock control, ordering, food costs, and waste management.
- Ability to work effectively under pressure in a busy kitchen environment.
- Strong organisational and communication skills.
- Good attention to detail and a commitment to quality.
- Ability to train, motivate, and manage kitchen staff.
- Food Safety qualification and relevant culinary qualifications are desirable.
Personal Qualities
- Reliable and professional.
- Positive and approachable.
- Organised and able to prioritise tasks.
- Calm under pressure.
- Passionate about food quality and customer satisfaction.
- A strong team player with excellent leadership skills.
Working Hours & Conditions
This is a full-time position of 41 hours per week, working 5 days out of 7.
Working hours will generally start from 5:00am onwards, depending on the needs of the business, with the working day finishing no later than 4:00pm.
We endeavour to ensure that you have at least one weekend day off each week. However, a degree of flexibility will be required, particularly when providing holiday cover or supporting the business during periods of increased demand.
The role is hands-on and based within a busy café kitchen, requiring good organisation, reliability, and the ability to work effectively as part of a team.
Key Performance Areas
- Food quality and consistency
- Food safety and hygiene standards
- Kitchen efficiency
- Staff performance and development
- Stock and food-cost control
- Waste reduction
- Customer satisfaction
- Compliance with health and safety requirements
Pay: £14.50-£16.00 per hour
Expected hours: 41.0 per week
Work Location: In person
