Head Chef

Simply Recruiting Ltd; Bruton; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A recruitment agency is seeking an experienced Head Chef for a new venue in Bruton. This permanent role involves overseeing kitchen operations, leading menu development, and fostering a positive team culture. Candidates should have a minimum of 3 years' experience in a Head Chef or Senior Sous role, strong leadership skills, and a passion for quality cuisine. Competitive salary, pension, and creative input on menu development offered.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Company Pension

Employee Discount

Creative input on menu development

Support in building a team

Values-driven working environment

Opportunity for long term growth

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years' experience in a Head Chef or Senior Sous role.
• Deep understanding of kitchen systems, GP, and cost control.
• Passion for bold, flavour driven food, with experience in Mexican cuisine a plus.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all kitchen operations, from prep to service.
• Lead on menu development – seasonal, creative, and cost effective.
• Ensure compliance with all food safety and hygiene regulations.

Skills

Leadership

Organisational skills

Menu creation

Food hygiene standards

Collaboration

Education

Level 3 food hygiene certification

Job description

Simple Recruitment are looking for a Head Chef for a permanent opportunity with our client in Bruton.

Full time role, including evenings and weekends

Competitive salary + tips
Company Pension
Employee Discount
Creative input on menu development
Opportunity to shape the food identity of a new, independent venue
A direct link to fresh, seasonal produce through their market garden partnership
Support in building and leading your own team
A values driven, respectful working environment
Long term growth as part of their leadership team

The Job:
Our client is looking for a passionate and experienced Head Chef to lead their kitchen from the ground up. This is a unique opportunity to shape a new food offering, build a positive kitchen culture, and develop a team dedicated to quality, consistency, and creativity.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee all kitchen operations, from prep to service
• Recruit, train, and manage the kitchen team
• Lead on menu development – seasonal, creative, and cost effective
• Communicate regularly with our market garden to plan dishes around available produce
• Maintain high standards of food quality, presentation, and consistency
• Ensure compliance with all food safety and hygiene regulations
• Manage stock, ordering, supplier relationships, and GP targets
• Foster a supportive, respectful, and growth-oriented kitchen culture
• Collaborate with the front of house team to ensure smooth service and communication
• Lead by example – with care, skill, and accountability

About You:

• Minimum 3 years’ experience in a Head Chef or Senior Sous role
• Strong leadership and organisational skills
• Deep understanding of kitchen systems, GP, and cost control
• Experience with menu creation and working with seasonal produce
• Confidence in planning around available ingredients and adapting menus accordingly
• High level of professionalism and attention to detail
• Positive and collaborative management style
• Passion for bold, flavour driven food – experience with Mexican cuisine is a plus but not essential
• Full understanding of food hygiene and safety standards (Level 3+ preferred)

Our brief: Simple Recruitment are acting as an employment agency on behalf of our client, based in Bruton, who are seeking a Head Chef to join their team on a permanent basis.

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