Head Chef

The Crown Inn; Melton Mowbray; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A historic pub in Melton Mowbray is seeking an experienced Head Chef to lead the kitchen and inspire the team. This role demands culinary excellence, the ability to manage a high-performing team, and a passion for local produce. You will control the kitchen's P&L, recruit and train staff, and ensure exceptional standards for every dish. If you are a people-first leader eager to create memorable food experiences, we encourage you to apply and explore your next leadership role.

Benefits

Work/Life Balance

Bonus up to 15%

Tips distributed weekly

Financial support through Wagestream

Career development programs

Reward and recognition platform

Food and accommodation discounts

Employee assistance program

Qualifications

• Experienced Head Chef or strong Sous Chef are essential.
• Ability to lead and inspire a team in a high-pressure environment.
• Passion for seasonal dishes and local produce.

Responsibilities

• Lead and inspire the team for memorable food experiences.
• Control kitchen P&L including costing and stock management.
• Recruit and develop a high-performing kitchen team.
• Ensure every dish meets exceptional standards.
• Maintain hygiene and compliance in the kitchen.

Skills

Leadership

Kitchen Management

Culinary Excellence

Staff Development

Pressure Management

Job description

Why work for us?

• Work/Life Balance?A genuine belief in work/life balance and an understanding of working together to promote flexibility
• Bonus? Up to 15% of salary able to be achieved on a quarterly basis
• Tips?A Tronc scheme with 100% of gratuities distributed to our teams every week via TipJar
• Financial Support? Access wages as you earn them through Wagestream,
• Development?Inspirational career development programmes
• Recognition?Dedicated reward and recognition platform
• Discounts?Food and Accommodation discounts nationwide
• Personal support?Employee assistance programme and wellbeing support

This isn’t just another Head Chef job — this is your chance to take the reins of a kitchen that lives and breathes our Core Values

Driven by people, Inspired by Innovation and Crafted for Guests.

Here, we don’t just want a Head Chef to run the pass — we want atrue leader. Someone who cares about food, and about the people cooking it.

If you wantownership, influence, and a role that respects your craft, you’re in the right place.

Nestled in the heart of the picturesque village of Old Dalby, The Crown Inn is a beautifully restored 17th-century pub that seamlessly blends historic charm with contemporary sophistication. Following an extensive investment in 2024, the pub offers guests a warm and inviting atmosphere, featuring cozy rooms, open fires, and a modern extension with floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook the landscaped garden, providing an ideal setting for outdoor dining during warmer months.

Culinary excellence is at the forefront of The Crown Inn's offerings. The chef-led kitchen presents seasonal and locally sourced menus that change regularly, showcasing a delightful array of dishes to cater to diverse tastes. Guests can indulge in delectable appetizers, mouthwatering main courses, and sweet treats, complemented by an impressive selection of handcrafted cocktails, fine wines, craft beers, and non-alcoholic options.

The Crown Inn is part of our Distinctive Collection, known for its unique character and commitment to quality. The pub's bar area is cozy and traditional, offering a welcoming space to relax by the open fire.

The job in a nutshell

• Lead and inspire the team to deliver consistent, memorable food experiences
• Control the kitchen P&L - from costing to stock management and labour
• Recruit, train and develop a high performing, happy kitchen team
• Ensure every plate meets exceptional standards for flavour, presentation and wow factor
• Own hygiene, compliance and safe working practices

What we are looking for:

• An experienced Head Chef or strong Sous Chef looking to make a difference
• A people-first leader who knows happy kitchens make the best food
• Confident in managing both service and systems
• Passionate about local produce, seasonal dishes, and a positive kitchen culture
• Someone who is calm under pressure, has high standards and a passion for culinary excellence

Ready to run a kitchen that runs on trust and talent?

Apply now and lets talk about where your leadership could take you next