Head Chef

Select Appointments; Leiston; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading hospitality venue in Leiston is seeking a skilled Head Chef to oversee kitchen operations and develop an exciting menu. The role involves high standards in food preparation and presentation, team management, and compliance with food safety regulations. Ideal candidates will have significant experience in a senior culinary role, strong leadership skills, and relevant qualifications. This opportunity offers a competitive salary and a supportive working environment that values creativity.

Benefits

Competitive salary package

Employee discount benefits

Full PPE provided

Supportive working environment

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a Head Chef or senior kitchen role.
• Excellent culinary skills with the ability to deliver quality under pressure.
• Solid understanding of food hygiene standards and allergen awareness.

Responsibilities

• Oversee food preparation and presentation to high standards.
• Develop seasonal menus and daily specials.
• Ensure compliance with food safety and hygiene regulations.
• Manage stock levels and budgeted food costs.
• Train and lead the kitchen team.

Skills

Culinary skills

Team management

Food hygiene standards knowledge

Organisational skills

Flexible approach

Education

Level 2 or 3 Food Safety & Hygiene Certificate

Relevant culinary qualifications (e.g. NVQ, City & Guilds)

Job description

Head Chef – Exciting Hospitality Opportunity - Suffolk

Salary: £40,000 - £45,000 DOE

Hours: 45 hours per week

Job Type: Full-time, Permanent

About the Role

Select Recruitment is proud to be working with a well-established hospitality venue seeking a skilled and passionate Head Chef to lead their kitchen operations. This is an excellent opportunity for a creative and organised culinary professional to take charge of a dedicated team and develop an exciting menu that caters to a diverse clientele and special events.

You’ll have full responsibility for all aspects of kitchen management – from food quality and presentation to safety standards, stock control, and team leadership. This role is ideal for a chef who takes genuine pride in delivering exceptional food in a welcoming environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the preparation, cooking, and presentation of food to consistently high standards
• Develop seasonal menus and daily specials that meet the needs of customers and guests
• Ensure full compliance with food safety, hygiene, and health & safety regulations at all times
• Manage stock levels, order supplies, and maintain budgeted food costs
• Train, motivate, and lead the kitchen team, ensuring effective communication and strong teamwork
• Coordinate catering for events, buffets, private functions, and themed evenings
• Maintain a clean, organised, and legally compliant kitchen environment
• Work closely with management to align food offerings with events and promotional activities

Essential Skills & Experience

• Proven experience in a Head Chef or senior kitchen role
• Excellent culinary skills with the ability to deliver consistent quality under pressure
• Strong leadership and team management capabilities
• Solid understanding of food hygiene standards, HACCP, and allergen awareness
• Excellent organisational and time-management abilities
• A hands-on, flexible approach with willingness to support across all areas of the kitchen

Desirable Qualifications

• Level 2 or 3 Food Safety & Hygiene Certificate
• Relevant culinary qualifications (e.g. NVQ, City & Guilds, etc.)
• Experience with menu costing, stock systems, and kitchen compliance documentation

What’s On Offer

• Competitive salary package
• Employee discount benefits
• Full PPE provided
• Opportunity to work with quality, locally sourced ingredients
• Supportive working environment with scope for creativity

To Apply

If you’re a passionate Head Chef looking for your next challenge, we’d love to hear from you. Please submit your CV and application to Stew at Select Recruitment.