head chef (Hiring Immediately)

JR United Kingdom; Maidstone; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a passionate Head Chef to lead their kitchen team in Maidstone. This role offers the opportunity to inspire and develop a diverse team while ensuring exceptional guest experiences. You will be responsible for maintaining high culinary standards and managing kitchen operations. With a commitment to inclusivity and a positive work culture, this position promises a rewarding environment where your leadership will shine. Enjoy competitive perks including a generous bonus scheme, private medical insurance, and family-friendly policies that support your work-life balance.

Benefits

Bonus scheme—up to £8,000 annually

Access up to 30% of earnings via Wagestream

Private medical insurance

Free shift meals and 50% discount outside work

Industry-leading family-friendly policies

First access to new menus

Dry-cleaned chef whites provided

Wagamama parties and VIP guest events

Pension scheme

Gym memberships

Qualifications

• Experience in leading kitchen teams and maintaining high standards.
• Strong focus on food safety and managing kitchen financials.

Responsibilities

• Motivate and lead the kitchen team to exceed guest expectations.
• Ensure high standards in food quality and safety.

Skills

Team Leadership

Food Safety Standards

Emotional Intelligence

Problem Solving

Coaching and Mentoring

Job description

Job Title: Head Chef (Hiring Immediately), Maidstone

Client: Wagamama

Location: Maidstone, United Kingdom

Job Category: Other

EU work permit required: Yes

Job Views:

3

Posted:

08.05.2025

Expiry Date:

22.06.2025

Job Description:

Head Chef | Full Time

At Wagamama, with over 165 restaurants, we celebrate individuality and diversity. We value personality over perfection—be yourself, be Wagamama. We are looking for a Head Chef to inspire and lead our kitchen team, ensuring high standards and exceptional guest experiences.

The Role:

As a Head Chef, you will motivate your team to exceed guest expectations, maintain high standards, and foster a positive work environment. You will coach, develop, and performance-manage your team to deliver outstanding results.

About You:

• Prioritize creating an inclusive, positive work culture through emotional intelligence, inspiration, and effective delegation. You excel at training, coaching, and mentoring emerging leaders.
• Dedicated to delivering excellent guest experiences, ensuring every dish meets high standards and your team is well-equipped and motivated.
• Experienced in maintaining food safety, health standards, and managing kitchen financials, including gross profit, stock control, and labor costs.
• Committed to building and nurturing your team from recruitment through ongoing development, fostering growth and professional progression.
• Passionate about creating an inclusive environment where your team feels respected and valued.
• A proactive problem solver, capable of quick decision-making and thinking on your feet.

What’s in It for You:

• Bonus scheme—up to £8,000 annually
• Access up to 30% of earnings via Wagestream
• Private medical insurance
• Free shift meals from our menu and 50% discount outside work
• Industry-leading family-friendly policies (26 weeks full pay + 13 weeks half pay for expectant or adopting parents)
• First access to new menus
• Dry-cleaned chef whites provided each shift
• Wagamama parties and VIP guest events
• Recognition as a nationwide Wok Star

Additional benefits include pension scheme, holiday, training, cycle-to-work scheme, retail and leisure discounts, gym memberships, and long-service awards.

Be You, Be Wagamama

Wagamama is proudly part of the Disability Confident scheme.