Head Chef

Buffet King; Gateshead; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

Buffet King in the United Kingdom is seeking an experienced chef to lead kitchen operations, oversee food preparation, and ensure menu variety and quality.

You will coordinate kitchen staff, train junior chefs, approve dishes, and maintain compliance with nutrition, sanitation, and safety standards. The role requires leadership, teamwork, and strong communication, with hands-on responsibility across all kitchen levels.

Qualifications

• Degree or diploma in Culinary Science or relevant field.
• 2 years relevant experience preferred.
• Strong cooking methods knowledge and safety practices.
• Good oral communication and attention to detail.
• Able to work in a team and lead when needed.
• COSHH and chemical safety awareness.

Responsibilities

• Direct and control the food preparation process and related activities.
• Construct menus with new or existing culinary creations ensuring variety and quality.
• Coordinate kitchen staff and assist as required.
• Train staff to prepare and cook all menu items.
• Approve and polish dishes before service.
• Oversee the work of subordinates.
• Foster cooperation and respect between coworkers.
• Work closely with other chefs at all levels.
• Ensure compliance with nutrition, sanitation, and safety standards.
• Be responsible for health and safety and food hygiene practices.
• Train junior chefs and establish good relationships with front-of-house staff.

Skills

Leadership abilities

Teamwork

Communication

Attention to detail

Adaptability

Unsupervised work

Regulatory awareness

Education

Culinary degree

Diploma in Culinary Science

Tools

Kitchen equipment knowledge

Job description

To control and direct the food preparation process and all other relative activities.

To construct menus with new or existing culinary creations ensuring the variety and quality of the servings.

To coordinate kitchen staff and assist them as required.

To train staff to prepare and cook all the menu items.

To approve and “polish” dishes before they reach the customer.

To oversee the work of subordinates.

To foster a climate of cooperation and respect between co-workers.

To manage and work closely with other chefs of all levels.

To comply with nutrition and sanitation regulations and safety standards.

To be responsible for health and safety and food hygiene practices.

To train junior chefs.

To establish good relationships with the front of the house including waitresses to act as key communicator.

Duties

Requirements:

Good knowledge of Oriental food.

Relevant degree or diploma in Culinary Science or relevant field.

Preferrable 2 years relevant experience.

Strong knowledge of cooking methods, kitchen equipment and best practices.

Teamwork-oriented with outstanding leadership abilities.

Ability in dividing responsibilities and monitoring progress.

Awareness of Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (COSHH) and chemical safety.

Ability to produce excellent high-quality food.

Good oral communication.

High level of attention to detail.

Adaptability to change and willingness to embrace new ideas and processes.

Ability to work unsupervised and deliver quality work.