Head Chef

Cosmo; Glasgow; On-site; GBP 42,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary and benefits

Career growth opportunities

Collaborative work environment

Job summary

COSMO Authentic World Kitchen in the United Kingdom, Glasgow is seeking an experienced Head Chef to lead the kitchen team, deliver high-quality dishes, and drive culinary excellence. You will oversee operations, mentor staff, manage inventory, and ensure compliance with health and safety standards.

You will develop new menus, control costs, and maintain a positive, productive kitchen environment, while inspiring creativity and delivering exceptional dining experiences for guests.

Qualifications

• Proven Head Chef or senior culinary leadership experience.
• Strong knowledge of cooking techniques, ingredients and presentation.
• Excellent leadership and team management skills.
• Financial acumen to manage kitchen costs.
• Excellent communication and problem-solving abilities.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Responsibilities

• Lead the kitchen team to ensure excellent food quality and efficient service.
• Oversee food preparation, cooking, and presentation to standards.
• Maintain inventory, control stock, and minimize waste.
• Recruit, train, and evaluate kitchen staff.
• Ensure health and safety compliance and food safety standards.
• Collaborate with management to plan menus, specials, and events.
• Monitor kitchen costs including food, labor, and overhead.
• Maintain consistent quality and presentation.
• Lead by example and foster a positive kitchen culture.
• Ensure equipment is well-maintained and repairs are arranged.
• Handle customer complaints regarding food.
• Maintain kitchen cleanliness and hygiene.

Skills

Head Chef experience

Leadership

Cost control

Food safety

Menu development

Staff mentoring

Communication

Job description

At COSMO Authentic World Kitchen, we don’t just serve food—we’ve redefined the dining experience. As the pioneers of the world buffet concept, we’ve been setting the standard in global dining since 2003. Recognised as the Best Restaurant in 100 Brands by the Savanta Brand Vue Survey, we’ve grown into a household name across the UK and Ireland, with a legacy built on innovation and excellence.

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Head Chef to lead our kitchen team and ensure the consistent delivery of high-quality dishes that exceed customer expectations. As the Head Chef, you will be responsible for overseeing kitchen operations, managing the culinary team, maintaining food quality, and ensuring adherence to health and safety standards. This is a leadership role where you’ll be expected to inspire creativity, develop new menus, control costs, and maintain a positive, productive kitchen environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the kitchen team, ensuring smooth operations, excellent food quality, and efficient preparation of meals.
• Oversee food preparation, cooking, and presentation, ensuring dishes are served according to the restaurant’s standards.
• Maintain inventory levels, control stock, and minimize waste by managing portion sizes, stock rotation, and sourcing products efficiently.
• Manage kitchen staff, including recruitment, training, and performance evaluation, to ensure high levels of skill and motivation.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations, food safety standards, and company policies, maintaining a clean and safe kitchen environment.
• Collaborate with the restaurant management team to plan and execute menu specials, promotions, and events.
• Monitor and manage kitchen costs, including food, labor, and overhead expenses, to achieve financial goals.
• Maintain quality control, ensuring that food is prepared and presented consistently and in line with the restaurant’s standards.
• Lead by example, demonstrating leadership in managing the kitchen team, addressing problems, and promoting a positive team culture.
• Ensure all kitchen equipment is well-maintained and in good working condition, coordinating repairs or replacements as needed.
• Handle customer complaints regarding food, providing solutions and ensuring customer satisfaction.
• Monitor kitchen cleanliness, hygiene practices, and safe food handling, ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.

Key Requirements

• Proven experience as a Head Chef, Sous Chef, or in a similar culinary leadership role within a restaurant.
• In-depth knowledge of cooking techniques, ingredients, and food preparation methods.
• Excellent leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and inspire kitchen staff.
• Strong knowledge of food safety regulations and health and safety standards.
• Strong organizational skills, with the ability to multitask and prioritize in a fast-paced environment.
• Financial acumen to manage kitchen costs, including food, labor, and inventory control.
• Ability to work under pressure while maintaining high standards of quality and presentation.
• Creative flair and a passion for food and cooking.
• Ability to mentor and develop junior kitchen staff to enhance their skills and support their career growth.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to make decisions quickly and effectively.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to liaise effectively with front-of-house staff and management.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays, as required by the restaurant schedule.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunities for career growth and advancement within the restaurant.
• A collaborative and supportive work environment.
• The chance to lead a dynamic kitchen team and influence the direction of the restaurant’s culinary offerings.

If you are an ambitious and passionate chef with the drive to lead a team and deliver exceptional dining experiences, we want to hear from you.