Position: Head Chef - Small Italian Restaurant
Location: London N4
Employment Type: Full-Time, Permanent (Subject to a 3-month trial period)
Compensation: £20.50 per hour (All overtime fully remunerated)
Standard Hours: 42 hours per week
Company Overview
We are an established, independent Italian restaurant in London committed to delivering authentic culinary experiences. Our establishment values culinary tradition, premium ingredients, and a collaborative, small-business operational environment.
Role Profile
This position represents an exceptional opportunity tailored to two distinct professional profiles:
- An ambitious Sous Chef possessing the drive to transition into their first Head Chef leadership role.
- An established Head Chef seeking a sustainable work-life balance via a structured 42-hour baseline week and a pre-defined core menu.
The successful candidate will assume full operational responsibility for the kitchen. Please note that this position commences with a mandatory 3-month trial period to evaluate mutual suitability and operational standard alignment.
The primary objective is the precise execution of our pre-established, successful core menu. However, we highly encourage innovation; the ideal candidate will actively introduce creative seasonal concepts and daily specials to enhance our offering.
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee and manage day-to-day kitchen operations, ensuring high standards of preparation.
- Consistently replicate and maintain the High quality of our established core menu.
- Develop and execute innovative daily specials in alignment with management.
- Manage stock levels, cost control, supplier relations, and waste reduction.
- Ensure strict compliance with all UK food safety, health and safety, and HACCP regulations.
- Lead, train, and motivate a small kitchen brigade to maintain high performance.
Requirements and Qualifications
- Languages: Professional fluency in both English and Italian is essential.
- Experience: Strong background in authentic Italian cuisine, operating as an established Head Chef or a senior Sous Chef prepared for promotion.
- Skills: Excellent leadership, organizational capabilities, and a comprehensive understanding of kitchen financials.
- Attributes: Reliability, emotional resilience under pressure, and a strong work ethic tailored to an independent business structure.
Remuneration and Benefits
- Hourly rate of £20.50 per hour.
- Contracted base of 42 hours per week to support a healthy work-life balance.
- Guaranteed hourly payment for any overtime worked.
- Guaranteed festive closure: The restaurant is always closed on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
- 3-month trial period built into the initial contract.
- A supportive environment with a direct line of communication to the business owner.
Pay: £20.50 per hour
Work Location: In person
