Chef - Lower Stretton

The Hollies Farm Shop; Stretton; On-site; GBP 21,000 - 27,000; Full time

Job summary

The Hollies Farm Shop is seeking a Kitchen Chef to join a small, busy team in Cheshire. You will prepare fresh food, uphold high safety, hygiene and presentation standards, and support daily kitchen operations.

This full-time role requires weekend availability and flexibility across Cheshire sites, with a focus on quality, customer service and efficient service during breakfast, brunch and lunch.

Qualifications

• Experience in a busy kitchen and safe food handling.
• Ability to work weekends and across sites.
• Good understanding of HACCP and hygiene standards.

Responsibilities

• Prepare fresh food and maintain high safety and presentation.
• Maintain hygiene and safety, HACCP compliance.
• Assist with opening/closing kitchen operations.
• Provide excellent customer service and handle complaints.
• Monitor stock levels and minimize waste.
• Organise storeroom and inventory.

Job description

The Hollies Farm Shop is a vibrant and dynamic family-owned business nestled in the heart of Cheshire's stunning countryside. With a passion for exceptional food and a commitment to championing the best produce from both near and far. Our ever-evolving selection of artisan-made breads, cheeses, cured meats, and luxury wines, beers, champagnes, and spirits are a testament to our dedication to quality and diversity. We take pride in sourcing only the freshest, locally produced fruits and vegetables, which we lovingly showcase alongside our international food picks. At the Hollies, we are constantly looking to the future and striving to innovate, while always staying true to our roots. Our team of friendly and knowledgeable staff is always on hand to offer advice and recommendations, and we are committed to providing a shopping experience that is second to none.

Job Role: Chef

Location: The Hollies Farm Shop - Lower Stretton

Type of contract: Full time (no evenings)

As a Kitchen Chef at The Hollies Farm Shop, Lower Stretton, you’ll be a key member of a small kitchen team, integral to the daily operations within the department & ensuring it runs smoothly and efficiently throughout the day. This is a dynamic, hands-on role and you'll play a key part in maintaining high standards and the overall success of the department. You will be required to support the kitchen team in preparing fresh food while maintaining high standards of safety, cleanliness, and presentation.

Key Responsibilities

1. Team & Operational Support

• Maintain a clean, hygienic, and safe environment according to health and safety guidelines.
• Represent the department in dealings with suppliers, EHO’s and suppliers in the absence of the supervisor/manager’s.
• Comply and monitor with daily HACCP, LOGIT checks.
• Accommodate EHO visits and ensure compliance is met.
• Maintain excellent standards of food hygiene, safety, and compliance.
• Food preparation, ensure all dishes meet quality standards.
• Ensure consistency during busy breakfast, brunch, and lunch services.
• Work seamlessly with other departments to ensure smooth running of daily operations
• Opening & Closing Responsibilities - Assist with opening/closing the kitchen, including cleaning and equipment shutdown.
• Adhere to strict to allergen procedures and prevent cross-contamination
• Create and maintain a positive, collaborative working atmosphere

• Report concerns to the Kitchen supervisor/manager, as soon as possible
• Collaborate with kitchen team to provide excellent food and service
• Maintain a consistent, seamless service in the absence of supervisor/manager.

2. Customer experience

• Provide excellent customer service, assist customers, and handle complaints professionally – Escalating where necessary.

3. Inventory & stock control

• Monitor stock levels, rotate products (fridge/freezer/displays), and minimise waste
• Maintain accurate inventory records

4. Storeroom organisation

• Keep stock areas orderly and accessible
• Ensure inventory storage supports efficiency and cleanliness

You’ll have:

• Strong initiative and sound decision-making abilities
• Be able to stand for long periods of time
• The resilience to handle pressure and fluctuating workloads
• High standards of cleanliness and attention to hygiene protocols
• A proactive approach to safety and compliance across the department

Additional Duties

• Must be flexible to work weekends and across various sites within Cheshire