head chef

wagamama; Street; On-site; GBP 38,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

Wagamama is seeking a Head Chef to inspire a passionate team and uphold exceptional food and safety standards. This role involves coaching and mentorship while promoting an inclusive and positive culture. Join an organization that values individuality and provides various benefits, including bonuses, medical insurance, and generous food allowances.

Benefits

Annual bonus up to GBP 8,000

30% earnings access via Wagestream

Private medical insurance

Free food on shift

6 months full pay for new parents

Dry-cleaned chef whites provided

Gym memberships

Qualifications

• Experience in maintaining food safety standards and strong financial metrics.
• Ability to deliver exceptional guest experiences and develop team skills.
• Inclusive mindset fostering a positive work culture.

Responsibilities

• Inspire and develop kitchen staff to exceed guest expectations.
• Maintain high food quality and health standards.
• Recruit, train, and empower emerging leaders.

Skills

Leadership

Emotional Intelligence

Problem Solving

Coaching

Team Building

Job description

Head Chef - Full Time

With over three decades of celebrating individuality and diversity, we at Wagamama value personality over perfection. We are proud to operate over 165 restaurants and are seeking a Head Chef to join us on our journey to nourish both body and soul.

The Role

As a Head Chef, you will inspire your team to exceed guest expectations, maintaining high standards. You will coach and develop your team to reach their full potential, drive performance, and achieve excellent results.

About You

• You prioritize creating a positive, inclusive work culture through emotional intelligence, inspiration, and effective delegation. You excel in influencing and empowering emerging leaders through training, coaching, and mentorship.
• You are committed to delivering exceptional guest experiences, ensuring every dish meets high standards, and equipping your team with necessary skills and mindset.
• You have experience maintaining impeccable food, health, and safety standards in your kitchen, understanding financial metrics like gross profit, stock control, and labor costs, and proactively identifying opportunities.
• You focus on building and nurturing your team, from recruitment to ongoing development, fostering personal and professional growth.
• You care about creating an inclusive environment where your team feels respected and belonging, enabling them to flourish in their roles and careers.
• You are a forward-thinking problem solver, capable of making quick decisions and thinking on your feet.

We'd Love to Hear from You

What’s in it for You?

• Bonus scheme – up to GBP 8,000 annual bonus
• Access up to 30% of your earnings before payday with Wagestream
• Wagamama food allowance
• Private medical insurance
• Free food on shift — anything from our menu! Plus 50% off outside of work for friends and family
• Industry-leading family-friendly policy — 26 weeks full pay + 13 weeks half pay for expectant or adopting parents
• Be the first to try our new menus
• Dry-cleaned chef whites provided every shift
• Wagamama parties with VIP guests throughout the year
• National recognition as a wok star through our recognition programme

Additionally, we offer pension schemes, holiday leave, training, cycle-to-work schemes, retail and leisure discounts, gym memberships, and long service awards.

Be You, Be Wagamama

Wagamama is proudly part of the Disability Confident scheme.