Assistant Chef

TN United Kingdom; Haywards Heath; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in Sussex is seeking a Head Chef / Creative Kitchen Lead to shape their food experience. You will have full responsibility for kitchen operations, menu development, and ensuring high standards. Ideal candidates are creative, passionate about food, and have at least 1 year of professional experience. The role offers competitive pay, flexible working hours, and a supportive culture focused on growth and innovation.

Benefits

Competitive Pay

Flexible Working

Creative Freedom

Personal Training Membership

Supportive, Growth-Driven Culture

Qualifications

• Minimum 1 year of professional kitchen experience.
• Confident and creative chef with a love for local ingredients.
• Natural leader who takes pride in their craft.

Responsibilities

• Lead all kitchen operations from prep to service.
• Design and execute innovative dishes.
• Maintain high standards of cleanliness and food safety.

Skills

Leadership

Creativity

Time Management

Organisational Skills

Job description

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Founded in Colombia and proudly based in Sussex, MINCKA is built on three things: exceptional coffee, warm hospitality, and a commitment to local produce. Our beans are locally roasted, and we source the best ingredients from trusted local partners, including Woodhouse Butchery and The Flour Pot Bakery.

We believe the food we serve should be just as exciting and memorable as the coffee we pour.

The Role

As Head Chef / Creative Kitchen Lead, you’ll play a key role in shaping the MINCKA food experience. From day one, you’ll have full responsibility for running our kitchen, developing the menu, and delivering consistently high standards.

Requirements

Key Responsibilities

• Kitchen Ownership: Lead all kitchen operations from prep to service, with autonomy and responsibility.
• Menu Development: Design and execute innovative dishes that complement our speciality coffee offering and seasonal ingredients.
• Ingredient Sourcing: Work closely with local suppliers to celebrate Sussex produce.
• Operational Excellence: Maintain high standards of cleanliness, food safety, and kitchen organisation.
• Team Collaboration: Work closely with our front-of-house team to ensure seamless service and an exceptional guest experience.

What We’re Looking For

• Minimum 1 year of professional kitchen experience.
• A confident, creative chef with a love for experimentation and local ingredients.
• Strong organisation and time management skills.
• A natural leader who takes pride in their craft and sets high standards.
• Passion for food, people, and creating memorable experiences.
• Competitive Pay – Based on experience and reviewed regularly.
• Flexible Working – Full-time or part-time hours to suit your lifestyle.
• Creative Freedom – You’ll have space to experiment and make your mark.
• Personal Training Membership – Complimentary access to Madisons Fitness (worth £5,388/year).
• A Supportive, Growth-Driven Culture – We care about quality, innovation, and the people who bring it to life.