designate head chef (Hiring Immediately)

JR United Kingdom; Southampton; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a passionate Designate Head Chef to lead a dynamic team in Southampton. This role focuses on creating exceptional guest experiences while fostering a positive and inclusive work culture. You'll be responsible for maintaining high food standards, coaching your team, and ensuring financial performance. With generous perks, including a substantial bonus scheme and comprehensive benefits, this opportunity is perfect for those looking to grow in a vibrant culinary environment. Join us and make a difference in every dish served!

Benefits

Bonus scheme—up to £8,000 annually

Access to earnings before payday

Private medical insurance

Free food on shift

50% off for friends and family

Family-friendly policy

Dry-cleaned chef whites

Recognition program

Pension schemes

Gym memberships

Qualifications

• Experience in maintaining high standards of food and safety.
• Ability to train and mentor emerging leaders effectively.

Responsibilities

• Inspire your team to deliver exceptional guest experiences.
• Maintain high standards and coach your team to excel.

Skills

Emotional Intelligence

Training and Coaching

Food Safety Standards

Financial Performance Understanding

Problem Solving

Job description

Designate Head Chef (Hiring Immediately), Southampton

Client: Wagamama

Location: Southampton, United Kingdom

Job Category: Other

EU work permit required: Yes

Job Views: 4

Posted: 08.05.2025

Expiry Date: 22.06.2025

Job Description:

Designate Head Chef | Full Time

At Wagamama, with over 165 restaurants, we celebrate difference and value personality over perfection—it's about being you, being Wagamama. We are looking for a Designate Head Chef to join us on our journey to nourish from bowl to soul.

The Role

As a Designate Head Chef, you will inspire your team to deliver exceptional guest experiences, maintaining high standards and continuously coaching and developing your team to excel and achieve great results.

What We’re Looking For

• Ability to foster a positive and inclusive work culture through emotional intelligence, inspiration, and effective delegation. You excel at training, coaching, and mentoring emerging leaders.
• Dedication to delivering excellence in guest experience, ensuring every dish meets exceptional standards, and empowering your team with the necessary skills and mindset.
• Experience in maintaining high standards of food, health, and safety, and understanding financial performance including gross profit, stock control, and labour costs.
• Commitment to building and nurturing your team through recruitment and ongoing development, fostering personal and professional growth.
• Care for creating an inclusive environment where the team feels respected and valued, enabling them to thrive in their roles and careers.
• A proactive problem solver who can think quickly and make effective decisions.

What’s in It for You

• Bonus scheme—up to £8,000 annually
• Access up to 30% of your earnings before payday with Wagestream
• Private medical insurance
• Free food on shift from our menu, plus 50% off outside work for friends and family
• Industry-leading family-friendly policy: 26 weeks full pay + 13 weeks half pay for expectant or adopting parents
• First to experience our new menus
• Dry-cleaned chef whites provided every shift
• Wagamama parties with VIP guests throughout the year
• Nationwide recognition as a Wok Star through our recognition program

Additionally, we offer pension schemes, holiday leave, training, cycle-to-work schemes, retail and leisure discounts, gym memberships, and long service awards.

Be You, Be Wagamama

Wagamama is proudly part of the Disability Confident scheme.