HEAD CHEF – NEW RESTAURANT OPENING
We’re looking for a Head Chef to lead the kitchen of an exciting new restaurant opening on the South Devon coast.
This is a hands-on leadership role within a fast-paced, independent business. It’s an opportunity for someone who enjoys leading from the front, building strong teams, and delivering consistently great food in a busy service environment.
About the Opportunity
We are an established independent hospitality group with a strong track record of successful venues and ambitious plans for future growth.
The new restaurant will be centred around Mediterranean and Spanish-inspired food, quality ingredients, relaxed hospitality, and vibrant service.
We believe in:
- Quality ingredients and well-executed food
- Positive, professional kitchen culture
- Supporting and developing great people
- Building businesses for the long term
The Role
You will be responsible for:
- Leading service and running the kitchen day-to-day
- Maintaining exceptional food quality and consistency
- Managing stock control, ordering and gross profit
- Ensuring food safety and compliance standards are met
- Training, mentoring and developing the kitchen team
- Working closely with ownership to continually improve systems and menus
This role is ideal for a chef who enjoys operational excellence and team leadership. The concept is already established and successful, so the focus is on execution, consistency and continuous improvement rather than creating a menu from scratch.
What We’re Looking For
- Previous experience as a Head Chef or strong Senior Sous Chef
- Excellent service leadership and organisational skills
- Calm under pressure and solutions-focused
- Strong understanding of food cost control and kitchen systems
- High standards and attention to detail
- Passion for fresh, ingredient-led cooking
- Positive attitude and ability to lead by example
Experience with Mediterranean, Spanish, tapas or small-plates concepts would be an advantage, but is not essential.
We are committed to creating a respectful, supportive kitchen environment and are looking for leaders who share those values.
Hours & Structure
- Full-time position (45–48 hours)
- Structured rota with defined closing procedures
- Mix of prep and service shifts
- Focus on maintaining a sustainable work-life balance
Salary & Benefits
- £32,000–£38,000 depending on experience
- Tronc on top
- Staff meals
- Career progression opportunities within a growing hospitality group
- Potential accommodation support for the right candidate
To apply, please send your CV and a short introduction outlining your experience and what you’re looking for in your next role.
Pay: £32,000.00-£40,000.00 per year
Work Location: In person
