Head Chef

Chestnut; Colchester; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Chestnut is seeking an experienced Head Chef for The Crown Stoke by-Nayland. You will lead the kitchen team, design seasonal menus, and ensure high culinary standards while fostering a positive work environment. Join us for competitive pay and great perks in a welcoming community-focused setting.

Benefits

Team and individual incentives

Flexible hours

Tips on top of pay

Food and room discounts

Access to exclusive discounts

High-quality staff food

Industry-recognized qualifications

Employee rewards and recognition

Referral scheme earning up to £1500

Qualifications

• Experience in leading a kitchen team needed.
• Ability to manage kitchen operations and staff training.
• Skills in designing and developing seasonal menus.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop seasonal menus reflecting Chestnut’s vision.
• Recruit, train, and mentor kitchen staff.
• Oversee kitchen operations and ensure high dish standards.

Skills

Culinary creativity

Leadership

Menu design

Inventory management

Health and safety compliance

Job description

The Crrown Stoke by-Nayland is seeking an experienced, skilled Head Chef to lead the kitchen team. At Chestnut, we pride ourselves on using fresh, locally sourced food, culinary creativity, and delivering an exceptional culinary experience for our guests.

The Crown

A member of the Chestnut collection of pubs, inns, and restaurants; we are a traditional village pub with rooms situated in the heart of Constable country where the Suffolk border meets Essex. Offering our guests a home away from home, delicious food, real ales, and a very well-stocked wine cellar.

It is this dedication and our passionate team that keeps guests returning time and again!

Job Requirements

• Design and develop seasonal menus that reflect creativity aligned with Chestnut’s vision.
• Recruit, train, and mentor kitchen staff, fostering a collaborative and positive work environment.
• Ensure every dish meets high standards for taste, presentation, and consistency.
• Oversee kitchen operations, including inventory management, cost control, and health and safety compliance.
• Manage dry stock effectively.
• Work closely with the General Manager to cultivate a positive and motivated team environment, ensuring optimal performance.

Why Join Us?

• Incentives: Enjoy team and individual incentives, including staff days out and trips abroad.
• Flexible Hours: Maintain a healthy work-life balance.
• Tips: Earn tips on top of your hourly pay, with financial tracking via Wagestream.

Perks of Working with Us:

• Be part of a friendly, supportive team and connect with other Chestnut properties.
• £55k salary OTE
• Additional tips on top of competitive hourly pay
• Opportunities for growth within hospitality careers
• A vibrant, community-focused environment
• Food and room discounts for friends
• Access to exclusive discounts via Chestnut Hub
• High-quality staff food
• Industry-recognized qualifications
• Employee rewards and recognition prizes
• Referral scheme earning up to £1500 per referral

Who are Chestnut?

Located in East Anglia, we are a growing group of pubs with rooms and Bottle Shops. We are proud yet humble, striving to do our best for our team members, offering flexible hours to suit personal commitments.