Head Chef

Shepherd Neame Ltd; Canterbury; On-site; GBP 19,000 - 30,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hourly pay plus tips

Early wage withdrawal scheme

25% food & drink discounts at Shepherd

25% discount on overnight stays at M.H

Up to 40% off Visitor Centre Shop

Exclusive discounts via Sheps Hut

Workplace Mental Health Platform

Company pension plan

Career development opportunities

Flexible working hours

Job summary

Shepherd Neame Ltd in Canterbury is seeking a Head Chef to oversee all kitchen operations, from menu planning to service delivery. You will lead, motivate and develop the kitchen team to achieve high standards and ensure dishes are prepared to company specifications.

This role calls for strong leadership, a passion for creating outstanding dishes, and the ability to drive cost efficiency, hygiene and seasonal menus while working closely with the General Manager to deliver an exceptional guest

Qualifications

• Leadership experience in a professional kitchen.
• Ability to plan and develop menus with consistency.
• Strong focus on hygiene, safety and cost control.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all kitchen operations from menu planning to service delivery.
• Lead, motivate and develop the kitchen team to high standards.
• Ensure dishes are prepared to company specifications.
• Manage stock, ordering and cost efficiency.
• Maintain strict hygiene and safety compliance.
• Drive menu development and seasonal specials.
• Collaborate with the General Manager to deliver an exceptional guest experience.

Skills

Kitchen Management

Team Leadership

Menu Development

Quality Assurance

Job description

Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of kitchen operations, from menu planning to service delivery.
• Lead, motivate, and develop the kitchen team to achieve high standards.
• Ensure all dishes are prepared and presented to company specifications.
• Manage stock control, ordering, and cost efficiency.
• Maintain strict hygiene, safety, and compliance standards.
• Drive innovation through menu development and seasonal specials.

• Work closely with the General Manager to deliver an exceptional guest experience.

  At Shepherd Neame, we know that great food is at the heart of a memorable experience. As a Head Chef, you'll take full responsibility for the kitchen, leading your team to deliver exceptional quality and consistency. This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced chef with strong leadership skills and a passion for creating outstanding dishes.

  Competitive hourly pay plus a share of tips

• Early wage withdrawal scheme
• 25% discount on food and drink at Shepherd Neame Managed Houses
• 25% discount on overnight stays at Managed House Hotels
• Up to 40% off select purchases from our Visitor Centre Shop in Faversham
• Exclusive discounts via Sheps Hut on hundreds of high street brands
• Access to a Workplace Mental Health Platform
• Company pension plan
• Career development opportunities across our pubs, Brewery, and Support Office
• Flexible working hours to suit your lifestyle

What You’ll Need

We're looking for behaviours that make a great Head Chef:

• Working Together - you inspire confidence, guide others positively and enjoy working collaboratively and supporting colleagues.
• Pride and Passion - you care about quality, presentation and ensure consistency and high standards.
• Sheps Spirit - you bring enthusiasm and a passion for food.
• Authenticity - you stay calm and proactive when things get busy.

Why Shepherd Neame?

Our culture is built on Sheps Spirit, Working Together, Pride and Passion, and Authenticity-values that have guided us for over 300 years. When you join us, you become part of a team that celebrates tradition while shaping the future. Ready to bring your personality and passion to the kitchen?