Head Chef

Royal Tankerton; Ospringe; On-site; GBP 31,000 - 41,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay with tips

Early wage withdrawal

Staff discounts on food and drink

Company pension

Career development opportunities

Flexible working hours

Job summary

Shepherd Neame’s Village HQ at the George & Dragon is seeking a Head Chef to lead the kitchen, drive menu development, and ensure consistent, high-quality service.

You will manage kitchen operations, lead a dedicated team, and work closely with the General Manager to deliver an exceptional guest experience. This is a full-time seasonal role with competitive pay, tips, and staff discounts.

Qualifications

• Experience as Head Chef or senior kitchen leadership.
• Strong menu development and cost-control skills.
• Excellent team leadership and communication.

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 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.
• Collaborate with the General Manager to deliver an exceptional guest experience.

Skills

Kitchen leadership

Menu planning

Staff development

Job description

Employment type: Full Time
Contract: Seasonal
Salary: 36000 per annum

Head Chef – Lead Our Kitchen with Britain’s Oldest Brewer!

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

Known by locals as Village HQ, the George & Dragon is a traditional English pub with a menu that celebrates the absolute best of British. A large, open garden space is perfect for summer evenings. For our sports lovers we have indoor and outdoor TV’s screening all the latest live sports.

What You’ll Do

• 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.

What’s In It For You?

• 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 andenjoy working collaboratively and supporting colleagues.
• Pride and Passion – you care about quality, presentation andensure 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?