The Union Rye is MICHELIN Guide listed restaurant, as well as proudly placed at number 23 in The Good Food Guide's Top 100 Local Restaurants in Britain 2026.
We have an exciting opportunity to step into a leadership position within a successful and fast growing business in a popular ancient town on the South East coast. We are looking to hire a head chef to lead our kitchen. The role will be supported by a hands-on executive chef, who you'll work alongside to deliver an outstanding product and to drive forward a passionate team. You'll head up an existing team of two sous chefs, 2 CDPs and a kitchen assistant.
There's a great work/life balance to look forward to as part of our small and close-knit team in an enriching working environment that values employee satisfaction and happiness. We maintain an incredibly high standard of quality and service, whilst also expecting you to give your colleagues the same level of care we expect given to our guests.
This position would suit an existing head chef, however an experienced sous with a proven track record for growth and development within a business will also be considered.
Rather than list what we’d like from you, we thought we’d list some of what we’ll give to you:
- 50% team member discount for you and up to three guests whenever you dine at either The Union or The Plough.
- Staff meals that are actually good for you.
- Generous friends & family rates for overnight stays at The Plough.
- Genuine work/life balance with some regular evenings and weekend days off. Full-time roles are 45 hours per week over 4 or 5 days.
- Personal development plan tailored to you, with external courses paid for by us to support your ongoing learning.
- Free access to mental health and one on one counselling sessions with a professional, plus legal and financial advice via our employee assistance program.
- £250 bonus if you refer a friend to work with us and they complete probation.
- A CODE HOSPITALITY membership fully paid for by us. This gives you access to great industry discounts and benefits.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: From £45,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Discounted or free food
- Employee discount
- Free parking
Ability to commute/relocate:
- Rye TN31 7JY: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Licence/Certification:
- Driving Licence (preferred)
Location:
Work Location: In person
