Head Chef

Little Large Pub Company Limted; Tonbridge; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A local pub in the South East London area is seeking a hands-on and creative Head Chef to lead the kitchen. The ideal candidate will have proven experience in a busy kitchen environment and a passion for seasonal British food. You will be responsible for designing menus, maintaining food quality, and managing safety standards, all while creating a community-driven dining experience. If you have strong leadership skills and a collaborative attitude, this opportunity is for you.

Qualifications

• Proven experience running a busy kitchen ideally in a high-quality pub or bistro environment.
• Strong organizational and leadership skills.
• Creative approach to menu design and execution.

Responsibilities

• Lead and inspire a small, committed kitchen team.
• Design and deliver menus that reflect the seasons.
• Maintain excellent food quality, consistency, and presentation.
• Manage cost controls, stock, and supplier relationships.
• Ensure kitchen standards of safety, hygiene, and organization are exemplary.
• Work closely with the management team to create a memorable dining experience.

Skills

Leadership

Creativity

Organizational skills

Passion for seasonal British food

Job description

Full-time | Competitive salary + bonus | South East London

The Talbot is a much-loved neighbourhood pub in the heart of Brockley, known for its warm atmosphere, great drinks, and quality food served with generosity and flair. We’re now looking for a Head Chef to lead our kitchen and help shape the next chapter of our food story.

About the Role

We’re developing a simple, seasonal, and ingredient-led dining concept for our upstairs dining room. Downstairs, the pub menu remains approachable and vibrant: proper bar snacks, hearty plates, and classic Sunday roasts.

As Head Chef, you’ll :

• Lead and inspire a small, committed kitchen team
• Design and deliver menus that reflect the seasons and the spirit of The Talbot
• Maintain excellent food quality, consistency, and presentation
• Manage cost controls, stock, and supplier relationships
• Ensure kitchen standards of safety, hygiene, and organisation are exemplary
• Work closely with the management team to create a memorable, community-driven dining experience

About You

You’ll be a hands-on, creative chef with :

• Proven experience running a busy kitchen ideally in a high-quality pub or bistro environment
• A passion for seasonal British food and a collaborative, low-ego attitude
• Strong organisational and leadership skills