Elite Pubs is a group of characterful dining pubs across Kent and East Sussex, each steeped in history and set within beautiful surroundings. We’re passionate about creating memorable dining experiences built on outstanding service, seasonal menus, and fresh, locally sourced produce.
We are now seeking a talented and driven Head Chef to lead the kitchen at our recently opened site, The Never Say Never in Hildenborough. This is a hands‑on role, 48 hours per week.
Annual salary £42,000.00 pa (estimated earnings up to £54,000.00 pa with tronc - 48 hours per week.
⭐ What You’ll Do
· Lead, inspire, and manage the kitchen team to ensure smooth daily operations.
· Create and deliver seasonal menus that champion fresh, local ingredients.
· Oversee all food preparation and cooking to maintain exceptional standards.
· Ensure full compliance with food safety and hygiene regulations.
· Manage stock, ordering, and cost control to support profitability.
· Train, mentor, and develop your team to build a skilled, motivated kitchen.
· Work closely with front‑of‑house teams to deliver an outstanding guest experience.
· Foster a positive, professional kitchen culture aligned with our company values.
⭐ What You’ll Bring
· Proven supervisory experience in a busy kitchen environment.
· Strong culinary skills and a passion for seasonal, locally sourced produce.
· Confident leadership and team‑management abilities.
· Solid understanding of food safety standards and regulations.
· Experience in hospitality or restaurant settings (preferred).
· Ability to thrive under pressure while maintaining attention to detail.
· Excellent communication skills and a positive, collaborative attitude.
· Flexibility to adapt to evolving menus and guest preferences.
⭐ Benefits
- Internal training and development plans, supported by our exec team
- Birthday off guaranteed
- 50% discount off food when visiting with friends & family (T&C’s apply)
- 25% off bedrooms (T&C’s apply)
- 60% discount off the menu when on shift, no restrictions
- 15% discount off Wildshark products, still and sparkling wines and gins (Not available on Ecommerce)
- 15% discount off all tours and experiences at the Wildshark Vineyard for up to 6 people (T&C’s apply)
- A personal invitation to our staff reward event
- Incentives, reward & recognition trips
- Refer a friend and Chef recruitment incentives of up to £1.5k (T&C’s apply)
- Long service recognition rewards (extra paid holidays and a thank you from us)
- Company pension
We look forward to hearing from you.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: £42,000.00-£54,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Company events
- Company pension
- Discounted or free food
- Free parking
- On-site parking
Ability to commute/relocate:
- Tonbridge TN10: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Application question(s):
- Do you hold right to work in the UK?
Work Location: In person
