Head Chef

Harri.com; Exeter; On-site; GBP 39,000 - 46,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

£39k base salary with up to £46k with

Welcome £2k bonus after 12 months

Generous gratuities distribution via a

Pension scheme

Job summary

Rockfish is seeking a Head Chef to lead a talented kitchen team across our seafood-focused venues. You will oversee food preparation, inventory control, and cost management while upholding Sea-to-Table standards and exceptional guest experiences.

With structured training before you start and ongoing development, you will mentor chefs to reach their full potential while embracing our core values: Care, Community and Connection. The role offers competitive salary and bonus opportunities.

Qualifications

• Requires at least 1 year of Head Chef experience in a restaurant environment.

Responsibilities

• Cook exceptional dishes using the freshest seafood.
• Lead the service and mentor a talented kitchen team.
• Ensure every plate meets Rockfish standards.
• Manage resources to minimise waste and control costs.
• Collaborate with front-of-house to deliver unforgettable dining experiences.

Skills

Leadership

Stock management

Food safety

Job description

Rockfish, led byMitch Tonks, founder and CEO of the unique seafood business that catches, processes and serves local seafood at 10 locations in the Southwest. With a 25-year career in seafood as a chef, restauranteur and fishmonger Mitch is one of the leading, credible voices in seafood in the UK.

We’re aTop 50 Best Company to Work For in the UK, servingMSC-certified sustainable seafoodlanded fresh daily from Brixham Fish Market. If you're a talented chef with a passion forleadership, sustainability, and career progression, this is an incredible opportunity to grow with us.

The salary for this role is £39k per annum basic salary, up to £46k when including tronc, gratuities and overtime. PLUS you will receive a £2k welcome bonus after 12 months service.

The role

As Head Chef you will oversee a team of chefs ensuring food is prepared to a high standard, building a strong relationship with our front of house teams to deliver exceptional levels of service to all our guests.

You will manage stock effectively and respectfully to minimise wastage and control labour in line with budgets to ensure financial KPIs are met.

You will coach and inspire your team to fulfil their full potential ensuring you and your team embrace our core values, ‘Care, Community and Connection’.

As a new Rockfish Head Chef, you will be supported by structured training before you start in your restaurant, and we continuously develop your skills for a fulfilling career with Rockfish.

You will be required to have at least one years’ experience at Head Chef level within a restaurant environment.

As aHead Chefyou will:

Cook exceptional dishes using the freshest seafood.

Lead the service and mentor a talented kitchen team.

Ensure every plate meets our Rockfish standards.

Manage resources to minimise waste and control costs.

Collaborate with the front-of-house team to deliver unforgettable dining experiences.

What We Offer

Competitive salary +paid overtime(with a focus on work-life balance).

Generous share ofgratuities and tips, distributed via Tip Jar.

Generous Refer-a-friendbonus.

Company pension scheme to support your future.

Time to Recharge

28 days holiday, plus yourbirthday off

Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and Boxing Day off every year.

Winter working patterns withfull pay.

4 week paid sabbaticalafter 10 years service

24/7 access to wellbeing services, including counselling, financial and legal advice.

Discounts & Rewards

50% off dining at all Rockfish restaurants.

Access to Rockfish paddleboards to use on your break time!

competitions and incentives.

Training in wine, health & safety, and food safety.

Clear paths for career progression—we’re always looking for our next Area Head Chef!

Why Rockfish?

This is your chance to work in one of the UK’s most beautiful coastal towns, with a team that valuessustainability, quality, and growth. At Rockfish, we celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and inspired.

Ready to Make Waves?

Bring your passion and culinary expertise to Rockfish.