Head Chef

Shepherd Neame Ltd; Maidstone; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 33,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive hourly pay

Share of tips

Early wage withdrawal

Food & drink discounts

Pension plan

Flexible working hours

Staff discounts at Visitor Centre Shop

Mental Health Platform

Job summary

Shepherd Neame Ltd is seeking a Head Chef to lead the kitchen at the Oak on the Green, Bearstead near Maidstone, renowned for local produce and a diverse menu of British and Mexican dishes.

You will oversee all kitchen operations, mentor the team, and ensure impeccable dish quality and presentation while driving cost efficiency and compliance.

Qualifications

• Experience leading kitchen operations in a busy pub or restaurant.
• Strong leadership and team development abilities.
• Commitment to high quality, presentation and consistency.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of kitchen operations, from menu planning to service delivery.
• Lead, motivate, and develop the kitchen team to achieve high standards.
• Ensure all dishes are prepared and presented to company specifications.
• Manage stock control, ordering, and cost efficiency.
• Maintain strict hygiene, safety and compliance standards.
• Drive innovation through menu development and seasonal specials.
• Work closely with the General Manager to deliver an exceptional guest experience.

Skills

Leadership

Menu planning

Hygiene standards

Stock control

Cost control

Team development

Job description

At Shepherd Neame, we know that great food is at the heart of a memorable experience. As a Head Chef, you'll take full responsibility for the kitchen, leading your team to deliver exceptional quality and consistency. This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced chef with strong leadership skills and a passion for creating outstanding dishes. Where You'll Be Working Located in Bearstead, near Maidstone, the Oak on the Green sits on one of the prettiest village greens in England. Founded in 1665, the Oake Inn, famous visitors to the pub include Baroness Orczy, creator of the Scarlet Pimpernel, and Kent leg spin bowler Alfred Percy 'Tich' Freeman. Today, the Oak on the Green is renowned for using largely local produce throughout the extensive food menu offering both British and Mexican cuisine.

• Oversee all aspects of kitchen operations, from menu planning to service delivery.
• Lead, motivate, and develop the kitchen team to achieve high standards.
• Ensure all dishes are prepared and presented to company specifications.
• Manage stock control, ordering, and cost efficiency.
• Maintain strict hygiene, safety, and compliance standards.
• Drive innovation through menu development and seasonal specials.
• Work closely with the General Manager to deliver an exceptional guest experience.
  Competitive hourly pay plus a share of tips
• Early wage withdrawal scheme
• 25% discount on food and drink at Shepherd Neame Managed Houses
• 25% discount on overnight stays at Managed House Hotels
• Up to 40% off select purchases from our Visitor Centre Shop in Faversham
• Exclusive discounts via Sheps Hut on hundreds of high street brands
• Access to a Workplace Mental Health Platform
• Company pension plan
• Career development opportunities across our pubs, Brewery, and Support Office
• Flexible working hours to suit your lifestyle

What You'll Need We're looking for behaviours that make a great Head Chef:

• Working Together - you inspire confidence, guide others positively and enjoy working collaboratively and supporting colleagues.
• Pride and Passion - you care about quality, presentation and ensure consistency and high standards.
• Sheps Spirit - you bring enthusiasm and a passion for food.
• Authenticity - you stay calm and proactive when things get busy.

Why Shepherd Neame? Our culture is built on Sheps Spirit, Working Together, Pride and Passion, and Authenticity-values that have guided us for over 300 years. When you join us, you become part of a team that celebrates tradition while shaping the future. Ready to bring your personality and passion to the kitchen?