Head Chef
The Peppermill Bar & Kitchen, Buntingford, Hertfordshire
Salary: £45,000–£50,000 + generous tips
The Peppermill Bar & Kitchen is an independent small plates restaurant in the heart of Buntingford, Hertfordshire, renowned for exceptional food, warm hospitality and a passion for locally sourced, seasonal ingredients.
We're looking for an ambitious and talented Head Chef to lead our kitchen team and help shape the next chapter of The Peppermill. This is a fantastic opportunity for a chef who thrives in a quality-driven environment, enjoys leading from the front and is passionate about creating outstanding dishes using the very best fresh produce.
Working closely with the owners, you'll have the opportunity to influence seasonal menus, inspire your team and play a key role in maintaining the reputation that has made The Peppermill a favourite destination for both locals and visitors.
What's on Offer
- £45,000–£50,000 basic salary
- Generous tips in addition to salary
- Wednesday to Sunday working pattern
- 48-hour contract
- Closed every Monday and Tuesday, offering an excellent work-life balance
- Creative freedom to develop seasonal menus and specials
- The opportunity to be part of a respected, ambitious independent restaurant with a loyal customer base
- A supportive, hands-on ownership team that values innovation and quality
The Role
As Head Chef, you'll lead every aspect of the kitchen operation, ensuring consistently exceptional food and an efficient, positive working environment.
Your responsibilities will include:
- Leading, motivating and developing the kitchen team
- Designing and delivering seasonal menus featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients wherever possible
- Maintaining the highest standards of food quality, presentation and consistency
- Managing stock, ordering, food GP and kitchen budgets
- Ensuring full compliance with food safety, hygiene and health & safety legislation
- Training and mentoring junior chefs to support their development
- Working closely with the front-of-house team to deliver an outstanding guest experience
- Driving operational excellence while maintaining a calm, organised kitchen during busy services
About You
You'll be a passionate chef who takes pride in delivering exceptional food and leading a successful team.
We're looking for someone with:
- Previous experience as a Head Chef, or an accomplished Sous Chef ready to take the next step
- Strong leadership and people management skills
- A passion for modern British cuisine with European and international influences
- Experience working with fresh, seasonal produce in a quality-led kitchen
- Excellent commercial awareness, including stock control, food margins and labour management
- Strong organisational skills and the ability to perform under pressure
- High standards, attention to detail and genuine pride in every dish that leaves the kitchen
- A positive attitude, excellent communication skills and a commitment to developing others
Join The Peppermill
If you're looking for a Head Chef position where your creativity is encouraged, your leadership is valued and you'll be part of a passionate independent business with an excellent reputation, we'd love to hear from you.
Apply today and help lead the future of The Peppermill Bar & Kitchen.
Pay: £45,000.00-£50,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Discounted or free food
- Employee discount
- Free parking
Ability to commute/relocate:
- Buntingford, Hertfordshire: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (preferred)
Application question(s):
- How do you maintain quality when the kitchen is under pressure?
- What are you looking for in your next role?
- How do you motivate your kitchen team during busy periods?
- How do you balance creativity with food cost targets?
Experience:
- Senior Chef: 3 years (preferred)
Language:
Work Location: In person
