designate head chef - Inclusive Work Culture (Hiring Immediately)

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

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Designate Head Chef to lead their kitchen team in delivering exceptional culinary experiences. This full-time role emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence and team development, fostering a positive and inclusive work culture. The successful candidate will be responsible for maintaining high service standards, ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations, and managing the financial aspects of kitchen operations. With a focus on personal and professional growth for team members, this position offers a unique opportunity to thrive in a dynamic environment while enjoying competitive perks and a supportive workplace culture.

Benefits

Bonus scheme — up to £8,000 annually

Access to earnings before payday

Private medical insurance

Free food on shift

Family-friendly policy

Dry-cleaned chef whites

Recognition program

Pension schemes

Cycle-to-work schemes

Gym memberships

Qualifications

• Experience in leading kitchen teams and delivering exceptional guest experiences.
• Strong understanding of food safety and financial management in a kitchen.

Responsibilities

• Inspire and coach the kitchen team to maintain high standards of service.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety standards while managing kitchen operations.

Skills

Emotional Intelligence

Coaching and Mentorship

Problem Solving

Food Safety Compliance

Team Building

Job description

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Client:

wagamama

Location:

Job Category:

Other

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EU work permit required:

Yes

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Job Views:

2

Posted:

08.05.2025

Expiry Date:

22.06.2025

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Job Description:

Designate Head Chef | Full Time

At Wagamama, with over three decades of celebrating individuality and diversity, we prioritize personality over perfection — we call it be you, be wagamama. With over 165 restaurants, we are seeking a Designate Head Manager to join us on our journey to nourish both body and soul.

The Role:

As a Designate Head Chef, you will inspire your team to deliver exceptional service, maintaining high standards and expectations. You will coach and develop your team to reach their full potential while driving performance and achieving outstanding results.

Requirements:

• Prioritize creating a positive and inclusive work culture through emotional intelligence, inspiration, and effective delegation. You excel at influencing and empowering emerging leaders through training, coaching, and mentorship.
• Dedicate yourself to delivering excellence in guest experience, ensuring every dish meets exceptional standards, and equipping your team with the necessary skills and mindset.
• Ensure compliance with food, health, and safety standards, and understand the financial aspects of running a kitchen, including gross profit, stock control, and labor costs, proactively spotting opportunities for improvement.
• Focus on building and nurturing your team from recruitment through ongoing development, fostering personal and professional growth.
• Care about creating an inclusive environment where your team feels respected and valued, enabling them to thrive in their roles and careers.
• Be a forward-thinking problem solver, capable of quick decision-making and thinking on your feet.

What We Offer:

• 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 — anything from our menu, plus 50% outside of work for friends and family
• Industry-leading family-friendly policy: 26 weeks full pay + 13 weeks half pay for expectant or adopting parents
• Be the first to try our new menus
• Dry-cleaned chef whites provided every shift
• Wagamama parties and VIP guest events throughout the year
• Nationwide recognition as a wok star through our recognition program

Additionally, we offer pension schemes, holiday, 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.