Kitchen Operations Leader (Hiring Immediately)

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

Job summary

An established industry player seeks a dynamic Head Chef to lead a passionate team in delivering exceptional culinary experiences. This role emphasizes fostering a positive work culture, prioritizing guest satisfaction, and maintaining high food safety standards. With generous perks including a substantial bonus scheme, private medical insurance, and access to earnings before payday, this opportunity offers a supportive environment for personal and professional growth. If you are a forward-thinking leader who values inclusivity and excellence, this role is perfect for you.

Benefits

Bonus scheme — up to £8,000 a year

Access up to 30% of earnings before payday

Private medical insurance

Free food on shift

50% off food outside of work

26 weeks full pay for expectant parents

Dry-cleaned chef whites provided

Recognition program

Pension schemes

Gym memberships

Qualifications

• Experience in maintaining high food safety and quality standards.
• Strong leadership skills with a focus on team development.

Responsibilities

• Inspire and lead the kitchen team to deliver exceptional guest experiences.
• Ensure high standards of food quality and safety are maintained.

Skills

Emotional Intelligence

Team Leadership

Food Safety Standards

Financial Performance Management

Problem Solving

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:

4

Posted:

08.05.2025

Expiry Date:

22.06.2025

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Job Description:

Head Chef | Full Time | Tunbridge Wells

At Wagamama, we celebrate individuality and diversity. With over 165 restaurants, we value personality over perfection — we call it be you, be wagamama. We are looking for a Head Chef to join us on our journey to nourish from bowl to soul.

The Role |

As a Head Chef, you'll inspire your team to deliver exceptional guest experiences, maintain high standards, and foster a positive work environment. You will coach and develop your team to be their best, driving performance and achieving excellent results.

We'd love to hear from you if you |

• Prioritize cultivating a positive and inclusive work culture through emotional intelligence, inspiration, and effective delegation, providing training, coaching, and mentorship to emerging leaders.
• Are dedicated to excellence in guest experience, ensuring every dish meets high standards and your team is equipped with the necessary skills and mindset.
• Have experience in maintaining food, health, and safety standards, understanding financial performance including gross profit, stock control, and labor costs, and proactively spotting opportunities.
• Focus on building and nurturing your team from recruitment to ongoing development, fostering personal and professional growth.
• Care about creating an inclusive environment where your team feels respected and empowered to thrive.
• Are a forward-thinking problem solver, capable of quick decision-making.

We'd love to hear from you

What's in it for you |

• Bonus scheme — up to £8,000 a year
• Access up to 30% of your earnings before payday with Wagestream
• Private medical insurance
• Free food on shift — anything from our menu! Plus 50% off 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 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.