Head Chef

PREZZO TRADING LIMITED; Letchworth; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A popular Italian restaurant chain in Letchworth is seeking an experienced Head Chef. This role involves overseeing daily kitchen operations, leading and developing the cooking team, and maintaining high standards of food quality and safety. The ideal candidate has prior experience in a head chef role, strong leadership skills, and a passion for excellent guest experiences. You'll take pride in every detail of the dining experience.

Qualifications

• Previous experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef.
• Strong leadership skills to motivate the kitchen team.
• Excellent understanding of food safety and hygiene regulations.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily kitchen operations, ensuring quality and efficiency.
• Lead, coach and mentor the kitchen team for optimal performance.
• Manage stock and control food costs while minimizing waste.
• Maintain compliance with health and safety standards.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Food safety regulations

Cost control

Guest experience

Job description

Overview

As a Head Chef at Prezzo Italian, you'll be at the heart of the kitchen - leading with purpose and playing a key role in the restaurant's overall success. You'll oversee daily operations with precision, ensuring food quality, safety, and team performance meet the highest standards. Leading by example, you'll bring consistency and focus to every service. From managing stock and controlling costs to developing your team's skills, you'll take pride in every detail – helping to deliver an authentic dining experience that guests can truly taste in every dish.

How we work

• Lead from the heart‑motivating your kitchen team to deliver exceptional food and seamless service.
• Champion high standards in quality, presentation and consistency‑ensuring every plate leaves the pass with pride.
• Keep kitchen operations running smoothly, staying calm and focussed in every service.
• Support, coach and develop your team‑helping them grow and thrive in a positive, high‑performing environment.
• Take ownership of stock, waste and food costs‑protecting resources while driving strong performance.
• Work hand in hand with the front‑of‑house team to create a connected, guest‑focused experience from kitchen to table.

Our Person – We are looking for someone who:

• Take ownership and oversee day‑to‑day running of the kitchen, ensuring efficiency and quality.
• Lead, coach and mentor the kitchen team to achieve their best. Work collaboratively with the General Manager to drive restaurant success. Ensure dishes are consistently prepared and presented to high standards.
• Respond to guest feedback to maintain and improve quality.
• Support the front‑of‑house team in delivering an excellent dining experience.
• Recruit, train and develop kitchen team members.
• Foster a positive and supportive working environment.
• Ensure team members adhere to all safety and hygiene procedures.
• Manage stock, minimising waste and controlling costs.
• Maintain kitchen cleanliness and compliance with food safety standards.
• Ensure all necessary records and procedures are kept up to date.

Requirements

• Previous experience in a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef role.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Passion for high‑quality food and guest experience. Excellent understanding of food safety and hygiene regulations.
• Ability to thrive in a fast‑paced, high‑pressure environment.
• Strong financial awareness and cost‑control abilities.
• A proactive approach to training and developing a team.