Head Chef

Only Chefs Ltd; Stevenage; On-site; GBP 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

The Crown in Stevenage is seeking an ambitious Head Chef to drive kitchen vision, shaping menus and leading a passionate team to deliver exceptional dining experiences. You will inspire, mentor and develop staff across all service periods, while maintaining the highest standards of food quality and presentation.

This role focuses on menu development, cost control, and guest satisfaction, working closely with management to make The Crown a standout local destination for food, atmosphere and

Qualifications

• Previous experience in a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef role.
• A genuine passion for producing fantastic food.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate and develop a team.
• Excellent organisation and the ability to thrive in a busy service.
• A solid understanding of GP, stock control and minimising waste.
• High standards of food hygiene and kitchen management.
• Creativity, enthusiasm and a desire to continually improve.

Responsibilities

• Lead and inspire the kitchen team to create a positive and high-performing culture.
• Develop exciting seasonal menus and specials that keep guests coming back.
• Maintain exceptional food quality, consistency and presentation every service.
• Manage all aspects of kitchen operations, from ordering and stock control to food preparation and service.
• Drive high standards of food safety, cleanliness and organisation.
• Train and develop your team to help everyone reach their potential.
• Work closely with the management team to deliver an outstanding guest experience.
• Keep an eye on industry trends and bring fresh, creative ideas to The Crown.

Skills

Team leadership

Menu development

Food safety

Stock management

Organisation

Creativity

Industry trends

Job description

At The Crown, we’re on a mission to become the place everyone wants to visit, for incredible food, great atmosphere, and unforgettable experiences. We’re looking for an ambitious Head Chef who wants to be part of that journey.

It’s an opportunity to shape the kitchen, inspire a passionate team, create exciting dishes, and play a leading role in building one of the area’s most talked-about food destinations.

If you’re full of ideas, love developing people, and take pride in producing exceptional food every service, we’d love to hear from you.

What you’ll be doing

• Leading and inspiring our kitchen team, creating a positive and high-performing culture.
• Developing exciting seasonal menus and specials that keep guests coming back.
• Maintaining exceptional food quality, consistency and presentation every service.
• Managing all aspects of kitchen operations, from ordering and stock control to food preparation and service.
• Driving high standards of food safety, cleanliness and organisation.
• Training and developing your team to help everyone reach their potential.
• Working closely with the management team to deliver an outstanding guest experience.
• Keeping an eye on industry trends and bringing fresh, creative ideas to The Crown.

What we’re looking for

• Previous experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef.
• A genuine passion for producing fantastic food.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate and develop a team.
• Excellent organisation and the ability to thrive in a busy service.
• A solid understanding of GP, stock control and minimising waste.
• High standards of food hygiene and kitchen management.
• Creativity, enthusiasm and a desire to continually improve.

Why join The Crown?

We’re building something special. Our goal is simple: to make The Crown the best place to eat, drink and spend time.

That means investing in great people, encouraging creativity, and giving our team the opportunity to make a real impact.

Work Location: In person