Head Chef

We are seeking an experienced, passionate and organised Head Chef to lead our kitchen team and take responsibility for the day-to-day running of the kitchen within a children's softplay area. The successful candidate will be responsible for maintaining high standards of food quality, presentation, cleanliness and food safety while ensuring the kitchen operates efficiently during both quiet and busy periods.

The Head Chef will oversee food preparation and service, manage kitchen staff, monitor stock and ordering, contribute to menu development and ensure all dishes are prepared consistently to the required standard.

This is an ideal opportunity for an experienced chef who enjoys working in a busy, customer-focused environment and is looking to take ownership of a kitchen and play an important role in the success of the business.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the day-to-day operation of the kitchen.
• Prepare and cook a variety of meals to a consistently high standard.
• Ensure all food is prepared, cooked and presented in accordance with agreed recipes and quality standards.
• Take responsibility for the overall quality and consistency of food leaving the kitchen.
• Plan and organise food preparation to ensure the kitchen is ready for service.
• Manage and support kitchen staff, delegating tasks effectively and ensuring the team works efficiently.
• Train, support and develop kitchen team members in food preparation, cooking, hygiene and kitchen procedures.
• Ensure the kitchen operates efficiently during busy periods and that food is produced within appropriate service times.
• Assist with menu planning and development, introducing new dishes and ideas where appropriate.
• Maintain and follow food safety, hygiene and allergen procedures at all times.
• Ensure correct food storage, labelling, temperature control and stock rotation procedures are followed.
• Take responsibility for monitoring food stock levels and placing or assisting with food orders as required.
• Monitor food usage and minimise waste while maintaining appropriate stock levels.
• Ensure all kitchen equipment is used safely, maintained appropriately and any faults are reported promptly.
• Maintain high standards of cleanliness and organisation throughout the kitchen, including preparation areas, equipment, floors and storage areas.
• Ensure cleaning schedules are completed and kitchen standards are maintained throughout the working day.
• Complete and maintain relevant kitchen and food safety records.
• Ensure allergen information is accurate and that customer dietary requirements are communicated and managed appropriately.
• Work closely with management to ensure the kitchen meets the needs of the wider business.
• Assist with the smooth running of food service for parties, events and busy periods.
• Monitor portion sizes and food presentation to help maintain consistency and control costs.
• Lead by example, maintaining a professional, positive and respectful approach within the kitchen.
• Carry out any other reasonable duties required to support the effective operation of the kitchen.

Experience & Skills

• Previous experience working as a Head Chef, Sous Chef or in a senior chef position.
• Strong experience within a busy kitchen environment.
• Excellent food preparation and cooking skills.
• Good knowledge of food safety, hygiene and allergen requirements.
• Experience managing, supporting or training kitchen staff.
• Good knowledge of stock control, ordering, food rotation and minimising food waste.
• Experience with menu planning and recipe development is desirable.
• Ability to remain calm and organised while working under pressure.
• Strong organisational and time-management skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and a commitment to maintaining high standards.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to work independently and take responsibility for the overall running of the kitchen.
• A genuine passion for food, cooking and delivering a high-quality customer experience.

Personal Qualities

The successful candidate will be:

• Reliable and professional.
• Passionate about food and cooking.
• A strong team leader who can motivate and support others.
• Organised and able to prioritise effectively.
• Positive and approachable.
• Committed to maintaining high standards.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment.
• Confident making decisions and taking responsibility.
• Flexible and willing to support the wider team when required.

What We Offer

• The opportunity to take ownership of a busy kitchen operation.
• A varied and fast-paced working environment.
• The opportunity to develop menus and introduce new ideas.
• A supportive and friendly working environment.
• The opportunity to lead and develop a kitchen team.
• working hours between 9:30am - 7pm

Pay: £14.50-£15.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40.0 – 45.0 per week

Benefits:

• Discounted or free food
• On-site parking

Work Location: In person