Head Chef

Peoplebank; Carshalton; Remote; GBP 36,000 - 38,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Share of tips

Early wage access

Staff discounts

Company pension

Job summary

Shepherd Neame's Windsor Castle pub in Carshalton is seeking a Head Chef to lead the kitchen, manage the team, and deliver high-quality, consistent dishes.

You will oversee menu planning, stock control, hygiene and safety, and work closely with the General Manager to create an exceptional guest experience while benefiting from flexible hours and company benefits. This is a leadership role for an experienced chef with a passion for traditional pub classics and seasonal specials.

Qualifications

• Leadership and team management within a busy kitchen.
• Strong emphasis on menu planning, costing, and quality control.
• Commitment to hygiene, safety, and compliance.

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.

Job description

Employment type: Full Time
Contract: Permanent
Salary: 36000 - 38000 per annum

Head Chef – Lead Our Kitchen with Britain’s Oldest Brewer!

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.

Where You’ll Be Working

Dating back to 1860, the Windsor Castle is a traditional pub where a warm welcome is guaranteed. Just a short walk from Carshalton High Street, it boasts a spacious bar and restaurant, with a delicious menu of home-cooked traditional pub classics and light bites on offer.

What You’ll Do

• 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.

What’s In It For You?

• 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 andenjoy working collaboratively and supporting colleagues.
• Pride and Passion – you care about quality, presentation andensure 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?