Head Chef

Goldmills Recruitment Ltd; Preston; On-site; GBP 38,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment agency is seeking a Head Chef for a dynamic restaurant chain in Preston, UK. The successful candidate will oversee kitchen operations, maintain high standards of food quality, manage a dedicated team, and ensure compliance with health and safety regulations. Expertise in Asian and Indian cuisines is highly desirable. This position offers a competitive salary up to £45,000 annually, with additional bonuses and a 40-hour workweek primarily during evenings and weekends.

Benefits

Job security with a permanent contract

Competitive salary and performance bonuses

Opportunities for professional growth

Qualifications

• Minimum Level 2 in Health & Safety and HACCP.
• Food Safety Level 3 certification.
• Experience in relevant culinary disciplines.

Responsibilities

• Lead kitchen operations ensuring food quality and presentation.
• Manage a team, overseeing rotas and paperwork.
• Monitor delivery quality and take necessary actions.
• Recruit, monitor, and train staff.

Skills

Leadership skills

Motivational skills

Teamwork skills

Organisational skills

Time management

Communication skills

Culinary experience

Education

Food Safety Level 3 certification

Level 2 in Health & Safety and HACCP

Job description

Why This Role Stands Out

• Permanent Contract: Enjoy job security with a 40-hour week, primarily during evenings and weekends.
• Culinary Excellence: Work in a live kitchen, creating exceptional dishes that captivate diners.
• Professional Growth: Join a respected brand inspired by five-star hotels, known for elevating the buffet concept with global flavors.
• Competitive Salary and Bonuses: Earn up to £45,000 annually, with additional performance bonuses and tips.

Role Overview

The Head Chef will lead kitchen operations with a hands‑on approach, ensuring high standards of food quality and presentation. Expertise in Asian and Indian cuisines is highly desirable, as these are popular offerings at the restaurant. The role involves managing a team, overseeing rotas, and maintaining essential paperwork.

Key Responsibilities

• Maintain agreed food standards at all times.
• Ensure the kitchen fabric and equipment are safe, clean, and fully functional.
• Monitor delivery quality and take necessary actions.
• Comply with HACCP and health and safety procedures.
• Control stock levels and food ordering to minimise wastage.
• Follow and maintain Food Safety Management Procedures.
• Recruit, monitor, and train staff.
• Analyse market trends to develop and update menus.
• Liaise with floor staff and other departments for smooth service.
• Optimise outlet profitability and control costs in line with the budget.

Essential Skills and Experience

• Minimum Level 2 in Health & Safety and HACCP.
• Food Safety Level 3 certification.
• Strong leadership, motivational, and teamwork skills.
• Excellent organisational and time management abilities.
• Flexible attitude and excellent communication skills.
• Experience in relevant culinary disciplines.

Desirable Attributes

• Departmental training experience.
• Proficiency in various cuisines.
• Computer literacy.

Work Schedule

• Day shifts on weekends.
• Evening shifts during the week.
• Weekend availability required.

Join a team that values culinary excellence and professional growth. Apply now to become part of a dynamic and expanding restaurant chain.