Head Chef

Main Duties:

Kitchen Leadership & Team Development

• Lead, motivate, and support the kitchen team in delivering high-quality, consistent dishes at scale.
• Train, mentor, and develop chefs and kitchen assistants, ensuring strong technical standards and efficient working practices.
• Foster a positive, collaborative, and accountable kitchen culture.

Menu Execution & Operational Delivery

• Oversee daily kitchen operations, ensuring smooth service from breakfast through to close.
• Work closely with the Kitchen Manager on menu planning, development, and seasonal updates.
• Maintain strong portion control, presentation standards, and adherence to recipes.
• Ensure efficient service during peak periods in a high-footfall environment.

Stock, Ordering & Cost Management

• Manage stock levels, place orders, and oversee deliveries with accuracy and care.
• Monitor wastage, support cost control, and align with business targets.
• Maintain correct storage, labelling, and rotation of all food items.

HH ealth, Safety & Compliance

• Ensure all kitchen operations fully meet food safety, hygiene, and allergen standards.
• Maintain due diligence records and support compliance with EHO and internal audits.
• Champion safe working practices and support the Kitchen Manager in ongoing training.

Communication & Collaboration

• Work closely with Front of House teams to ensure timely, coordinated service.
• Communicate clearly with supervisors and chefs to maintain consistency and high-quality output.
• Support a culture of respect and teamwork across the café.

Requirements of the Role

• Previous experience as a Sous Chef or Head Chef in a busy hospitality environment.
• Confident leading a team and managing a high-volume kitchen.
• Strong technical cooking skills with attention to consistency and quality.
• Excellent organisational skills and the ability to stay calm under pressure.
• Solid understanding of food safety, allergens, HACCP, and compliance procedures.
• Experience with stock ordering, delivery management, and waste control.
• A proactive, positive, and solution-focused approach.
• Passion for developing people and contributing to a motivated, high-performing team.