Head Chef

Travail Employment Group; Burgess Hill; On-site; GBP 55,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading independent restaurant in Burgess Hill is seeking a talented Head Chef to lead their kitchen team. In this role, you will manage kitchen operations, develop seasonal menus, and ensure top-notch food quality. The ideal candidate will have proven experience, strong leadership skills, and an understanding of budgeting and food waste control. Offering a competitive salary of £55,000 - £65,000 plus tips. Join a supportive work environment focused on excellence.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Weekly paid tips and bonuses

Work-life balance with generous time off

Flexible shifts

Qualifications

• Proven experience as Head Chef or similar role in high-quality kitchens.
• Ability to thrive in fast-paced environments.
• Familiarity with GP, budgeting, and food waste control.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily kitchen operations and team management.
• Inspire and lead the kitchen brigade.
• Create and develop seasonal menu specials.
• Ensure food quality and presentation standards.
• Monitor stock control and ordering.
• Mentor junior chefs and train the kitchen team.

Skills

Leadership

Culinary expertise

Menu development

Budget management

Staff training

Health and safety compliance

Job description

Head Chef

55,000 - £65,000 + expected tips of approx. £6,000, Burgess Hill, 45-50 hours per week, permanent, discretionary bonus scheme, Flexible Schedule, Staff Meals, 2.5 days off per week.

The Role

This is a unique opportunity to lead one of Sussex's most highly regarded independent restaurants. As Head Chef, you will take the reins and bring your creativity, leadership and culinary expertise to a thriving, family‑run establishment. You will oversee a talented brigade of eight chefs and kitchen porters, ensuring the highest standards of food quality and service.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the daily running of the kitchen and team
• Lead and inspire the brigade with confidence
• Create seasonal specials and contribute to menu development
• Plan and coordinate events efficiently
• Prepare, cook and present fresh food to Rosette standard
• Manage ordering, stock control and GP awareness
• Organise rotas, teaching manuals and recipe manuals
• Mentor chefs and support training programmes
• Uphold health and safety regulations and standards
• Collaborate effectively with the Front of House team

Requirements

The ideal candidate will have solid, proven experience in a Head Chef role within restaurants or gastro pubs, with a strong background in high-quality, fresh‑produce kitchens. You should thrive under pressure in a fast‑paced environment, demonstrate creative flair with seasonal produce, and possess excellent leadership and mentoring skills. A strong understanding of GP, budgeting and food waste control is highly desirable, as is the ability to manage kitchen sections effectively.

Own transport is essential as no accommodation is provided.

This role could suit someone who has worked as Executive Chef, Kitchen Manager, or Senior Sous Chef.

Company Information

You will be joining a family‑run, independent restaurant that prides itself on creating seasonal menus using the finest locally sourced produce. With a supportive atmosphere and a commitment to quality, this is an excellent opportunity to work in a respected establishment with a reputation for excellence.

Package

• Competitive salary £55,000 - £65,000
• Weekly paid tips and bonuses (average £6,000 annually)
• Work‑life balance with 2.5 days off and reasonable finish times
• Flexible shifts with lifestyle‑friendly hours
• Opportunity to lead a talented brigade of eight chefs

Gain experience in general business structures

Travail Employment Group is operating as an Employment Agency. Once you click to apply for this job your application will be immediately received by Travail Employment Group. If your application is successful a consultant will be in contact with you within the next 7 days. If you do not hear within 7 days you have unfortunately not been successful on this occasion