About Us
The Hare & Hounds is a thriving independent village pub in Leavenheath, Suffolk, serving quality homemade food alongside a busy programme of events throughout the year.
We're looking for a passionate Head Chef/Kitchen Manager who takes pride in producing fantastic pub food using quality ingredients, with a little creativity and flair.
This isn't a corporate kitchen. We want someone who enjoys cooking proper homemade food, leading a small team and helping shape the future of our food offering.
As well as our regular restaurant service, we host successful BBQs, outdoor dining events, festivals and themed weekends, so we're looking for someone excited by cooking both for restaurant service and larger-scale events.
Working Hours
Food service operates:
- Wednesday & Thursday: 6:00pm – 9:00pm
- Friday & Saturday: 12:00pm – 2:30pm & 6:00pm – 9:00pm
- Sunday: 12:00pm – 4:30pm (last orders)
One of the biggest benefits of this role is the work-life balance.
The kitchen closes after Sunday lunch and doesn't reopen until Wednesday evening, giving you Sunday evening, Monday and Tuesday off every week.
The Role
You'll take ownership of the kitchen, ensuring consistently high standards while helping us continue to grow our reputation for quality food.
Responsibilities include:
- Running all aspects of the kitchen
- Producing high-quality homemade pub food
- Developing seasonal menus and weekly specials
- Managing food ordering and supplier relationships
- Stock control and food cost management
- Training and supporting kitchen staff
- Maintaining excellent food hygiene standards
- Helping develop our outdoor event and BBQ menus
- Working with the owners to continue growing the food side of the business
Kitchen Garden
One of the unique parts of this role is our large kitchen garden.
We grow a wide range of herbs, fruit and vegetables which are incorporated into our menus throughout the year.
You'll work with us to decide what is planted each season, helping influence next year's growing plan and making the most of fresh, homegrown produce.
About You
We're looking for someone who:
- Has previous experience as a Head Chef or experienced Sous Chef ready to step up
- Loves cooking proper homemade pub food
- Has excellent organisational skills
- Understands food GP and stock management
- Can lead and motivate a small team
- Enjoys creating seasonal dishes and specials
- Thrives during busy services and events
- Wants to be part of an ambitious independent pub
Performance Bonus
A performance bonus is available based on agreed KPIs including:
- Maintaining a 5★ Food Hygiene Rating
- Achieving agreed food GP targets
- Excellent stock control and waste management
- Successful delivery of major food-led events
- Consistently high customer satisfaction
Salary & Benefits
- £33,000–£36,000 depending on experience
- Paid holiday
- Generous tips
- Staff discount
- Performance bonus
- Creative freedom within the menu
- Genuine opportunity to influence and grow the business
- Excellent work-life balance
Pay: £33,000.00-£36,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Company events
- Company pension
- Discounted or free food
- Employee discount
- Free parking
- On-site parking
Experience:
- Head Chef: 2 years (preferred)
Work Location: In person
