Executive Kitchen Leader (Hiring Immediately)

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

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Head Chef to inspire and lead a vibrant team in delivering exceptional dining experiences. This role emphasizes individuality and diversity, fostering a positive work environment where every team member can thrive. With a focus on high standards and guest satisfaction, you will be responsible for motivating your team, maintaining impeccable food safety, and managing kitchen financials. Join a forward-thinking company that values personal and professional growth, offering industry-leading benefits and a supportive culture.

Benefits

Bonus scheme – up to £8,000 annually

Access to earnings before payday

Private medical insurance

Free food during shifts

50% off food outside of work

Family-friendly policies

Dry-cleaned chef whites

Recognition program

Qualifications

• Skilled in creating a positive work environment through inspiration and effective delegation.
• Experienced in maintaining food safety and kitchen financials.

Responsibilities

• Motivate the team to exceed guest expectations and uphold high standards.
• Coach and develop staff to reach their full potential.

Skills

Emotional Intelligence

Training and Coaching

Food Safety Standards

Problem Solving

Team Development

Job description

Job Details

Position: Head Chef | Full Time

Company: Wagamama

Location: [Location not specified]

Job Category: Other

EU Work Permit Required: Yes

Job Description

At Wagamama, with over 165 restaurants, we celebrate individuality and diversity. We value personality over perfection, embracing our philosophy: be you, be Wagamama. We are seeking a Head Chef to inspire our team and deliver exceptional dining experiences, nourishing both body and soul.

The Role

As a Head Chef, you will motivate your team to exceed guest expectations, uphold high standards, and continuously coach and develop your staff to reach their full potential while achieving excellent results.

Ideal Candidate

• Prioritizes creating a positive, inclusive work environment through emotional intelligence, inspiration, and effective delegation. Skilled in training, coaching, and mentoring emerging leaders.
• Dedicated to delivering outstanding guest experiences, ensuring all dishes meet exceptional standards through personal effort and team empowerment.
• Experienced in maintaining impeccable food safety and health standards, with a good understanding of kitchen financials including gross profit, stock control, and labor costs.
• Committed to building and nurturing a team through recruitment and ongoing development, fostering personal and professional growth.
• Values creating an inclusive environment where team members feel respected and belong, enabling them to thrive in their roles and careers.
• 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 earnings before payday with Wagestream
• Private medical insurance
• Free food during shifts and 50% off outside of work
• Industry-leading family-friendly policies, including 26 weeks full pay and 13 weeks half pay for expectant or adopting parents
• Opportunity to experience new menus first
• Dry-cleaned chef whites provided for every shift
• Wagamama parties with VIP guests
• Recognition as a nationwide wok star through our recognition program

Additional benefits include pension scheme, holiday entitlement, training opportunities, cycle-to-work scheme, retail and leisure discounts, gym memberships, and long service awards.

Join Us

Be yourself and be part of Wagamama. We are proudly part of the Disability Confident scheme.