Head Chef Designate + Tronc

The Peat Spade; Longstock; On-site; GBP 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Work-life balance

Tronc scheme

Chef whites provided

Career development

Discounts on food and accommodation

Job summary

Upham Inns is seeking a Head Chef Designate to lead a fresh food kitchen across our pubs in Southern England. You will mentor a team, maintain high standards and cook from scratch with seasonal produce.

This role offers real work-life balance, clear path to Head Chef progression, and generous staff discounts across our pubs and bedrooms.

Qualifications

• Loves cooking from scratch with quality, seasonal ingredients.
• Thrives in a fast-paced, fresh food environment.
• Knows how to coach, inspire and bring out the best in their team.
• Has a passion for consistency, standards and 5-star hygiene.
• Brings energy, positivity and a “let’s get it done” attitude.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop a high-performing kitchen team.
• Maintain exceptional food standards and seasonal menus.
• Coach and motivate staff to deliver consistent service.
• Uphold hygiene, safety and quality across all prep and service.

Job description

Ready to Take the Leap into Head Chef Leadership?

Are you an experienced Sous Chef with your eyes set on leading your own kitchen within the next 12 months? Or perhaps you're already a Head Chef looking for a fresh start in a growing company that truly values its people? If so, this could be the opportunity you've been waiting for.

We’re on the hunt for a passionate, quality-driven Head Chef Designate to join our vibrant, fresh food kitchen operation. This is your chance to step up and shine in a business that’s going places – fast!

What’s in it for you?

• Real work/life balance – we genuinely mean it!
• Tronc scheme – 100% of tips go to our team.
• Chef whites – we’ve got you covered.
• Career development – a clear path to Head Chef and beyond.
• Generous discounts – up to 50% off food and accommodation across our pubs and Charming Bedrooms.

A Role You’ll Be Proud Of

We’re looking for a natural leader – someone who:

• Loves cooking from scratch with quality, seasonal ingredients
• Thrives in a fast-paced, fresh food environment
• Knows how to coach, inspire and bring out the best in their team
• Has a passion for consistency, standards and 5-star hygiene
• Brings energy, positivity and a “let’s get it done” attitude

This isn’t a role for the faint-hearted. We’re busy, and we’re only getting busier – but if you love a challenge, you’ll thrive here.

Who are we?

We’re Upham Inns – a collection of premium pubs across Southern England, each one unique, full of character, and rooted in its local community. We serve high-quality, seasonal food in warm, welcoming pubs – many with charming bedrooms too.

We’ve also recently launched Harper’s Steakhouse – a fresh, bold take on the American steakhouse, and it’s already making waves.

Why Join Us?

We’re growing fast – and we want you to grow with us. We invest in our people, we value individuality, and we’re building something special.

We’re big enough to support you with great opportunities, yet small enough to know your name. If you’re ready to make your mark and join a passionate, friendly team where your ideas count – then we’d love to hear from you.

Your next chapter starts here. Ready? Let’s cook.