Job Overview
We are seeking an experienced, passionate and hands-on Head Chef to lead the kitchen at our well regarded village pub. This is an exciting opportunity for a talented chef who enjoys creating high-quality, seasonal dishes whilst supporting the warm and welcoming atmosphere that is highly regarded in our village pub at the heart of the local community b.This is a key role with full responsibility for delivering consistently high-quality food, strong kitchen performance, and a positive team culture. You will play a central role in shaping the food offer—developing seasonal menus, driving standards, and ensuring the kitchen operates efficiently, profitably and in full compliance with all regulations.
This position suits a chef who is equally comfortable leading from the front during service as they are managing costs, developing people and building a sustainable, successful kitchen operation.
Key Responsibilities
Kitchen Leadership & Culture
- Lead, inspire motivate and develop a stable high performing kitchen team.
- Train and retain team members, setting clear standards and expectations.
- Create a positive, professional and disciplined working environment
- Lead by example during service, maintaining calm, control and consistency
Food Quality and Service Delivery
- Deliver consistently high standards of food quality, presentation and portion control.
- Design and Develop seasonal, pub appropriate menus that reflect and exceed customer expectations, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients where possible
- Ensure efficient service during busy periods
- Accommodate dietary requirements and ensure accurate allergen management at all times
- Maintain consistency across all dishes through clear specifications and quality checks
Financial 7 Commercial Management
- Manage food costs and kitchen budgets
- Monitor gross profit margins and identify opportunities for improvement
- Control stock levels and oversee ordering from suppliers
- Conduct regular stock takes
Health, Safety and Compliance
- Ensure full compliance with food hygiene, health & safety legislation and allergen legislation
- Maintain excellent kitchen cleanliness organisation and safe working practices are consistently maintained
- Maintain our 5 star EHO rating
- Manage HACCP procedures and food safety records
- Ensure all kitchen equipment is maintained and used safely
Business Development
- Work closely with the Owners to grow food sales and enhance the pub`s reputation
- Combines their deep appreciation for food quality and dishes with a mastery of the online world, keeping up with dish trends
- Contribute ideas for special events, themed evenings and seasonal promotions
- Monitor customer feedback and implement improvements where required
Skills and Experience Required
Essential
- Proven experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef in a pub, restaurant or hospitality environment for 3 years+
- Strong leadership, communication and team management skills
- Excellent knowledge of food safety and hygiene regulations
- Experience managing food costs, stock control and supplier relationships
- Ability to work under pressure while maintaining high standards
- Passion for fresh, quality food and excellent customer service
Desirable
- Knowledge of local and seasonal produce
- Relevant culinary qualifications
- Awareness of culinary trends and willingness to adapt them for the menu and specials
Personal Attributes
- Positive and proactive attitude
- Strong organisational skills and attention to detail
- Creative and commercially minded
- Reliable, flexible and professional
- High level of personal hygiene and presentation
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
What We Offer
- Competitive salary
- Company pension scheme
- Creative input to shape menus and kitchen culture
- Supportive working environment
- Opportunity to build and shape a successful, long term kitchen operation
Pay: £35,000.00-£45,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Company events
- Company pension
- Employee discount
- Free parking
- On-site parking
Work Location: In person
