Head Chef – Full Time (around 50 hours)
La Panza | Bristol
La Panza is seeking an experienced Head Chef to join our team full time and take a leading role in shaping the food and direction of the business.
MUST HAVE EXPERIENCE IN INDEPENDENT and ITALIAN RESTAURANTS.
This hands-on position will be offering creative freedom, ownership of menus (within the identity and ethos of our restaurant), and the opportunity to make a real impact through restaurant service, events, and catering.
The kitchen is small and there are 2 chefs max on shift.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead, supervise, and motivate the kitchen team
- Design and develop seasonal menus, including events and catering menus
- Oversee food preparation to ensure consistency, quality, and presentation
- Manage food costing, GP, and waste control
- Plan production schedules to maximise efficiency
- Monitor stock, manage inventory, and liaise with suppliers
- Ensure full compliance with food safety, hygiene, and health regulations
- Train and develop kitchen staff
- Communicate effectively with front-of-house to support service, specials, and upselling
- Deliver dishes efficiently during service while maintaining high standards
- Deliver weekly specials, avoiding any possible food waste.
Requirements
- Proven experience in a supervisory kitchen role (Head Chef or Senior Sous ready to step up)
- Strong culinary skills and menu development experience
- Confident leadership and team management abilities
- Solid knowledge of food safety and hygiene standards
- Experience with food costing and kitchen operations
- Ability to work efficiently under pressure
- Background in high-volume or quality-driven kitchens preferred
What We Offer
- Creative control and space to leave your mark
- Supportive ownership and a growing independent business
- Full-time, permanent position
- Competitive salary (based on experience, salary above includes trunk)
To apply:
Send your CV and a short cover note outlining your experience and approach to food, or call 07985103839 . Position available now.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent, Freelance
Pay: £40,000.00-£50,000.00 per year
Benefits:
Application question(s):
- Please outline your past relevant esperience for this role
Experience:
- supervisory skills: 2 years (required)
Work Location: In person
