head chef (Hiring Immediately)

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

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dynamic Head Chef to lead a passionate kitchen team in delivering memorable dining experiences. This role emphasizes the importance of creating an inclusive and positive work environment, where every team member feels valued and empowered. As a Head Chef, you will not only oversee kitchen operations but also play a pivotal role in mentoring and developing future culinary leaders. With a commitment to excellence and a focus on guest satisfaction, you will ensure that every dish meets the highest standards. Join a company that celebrates individuality and diversity, and enjoy a range of attractive perks and benefits that enhance your work-life balance.

Benefits

Bonus scheme – up to £8,000 a year

Access up to 30% of your earnings before payday

Private medical insurance

Free food on shift

50% off outside of work

Industry-leading family-friendly policy

Dry-cleaned chef whites provided

Wagamama parties with VIP guests

National recognition as a Wok Star

Pension scheme

Qualifications

• Experience as a Head Chef or similar role in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong leadership skills with a focus on team development.

Responsibilities

• Motivate and lead the kitchen team to deliver exceptional dining experiences.
• Maintain high standards of food quality and safety.

Skills

Emotional Intelligence

Team Leadership

Food Safety Standards

Financial Metrics Understanding

Problem Solving

Education

Culinary Degree

Job description

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Head Chef (Hiring Immediately), Watford, Hertfordshire

Client: Wagamama

Location: Watford, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom

Job Category: Other

-

EU work permit required:

Yes

Job Views:

2

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 our team and deliver exceptional dining experiences.

The role:

As a Head Chef, you will motivate your team to exceed guest expectations, maintain high standards, and foster a positive, inclusive work environment. You will coach and develop your team, drive performance, and ensure operational excellence.

About you:

• You prioritize creating a positive and inclusive workplace through emotional intelligence, inspiration, and effective delegation. You excel at training, coaching, and mentoring emerging leaders.
• You are committed to delivering excellent guest experiences, ensuring each dish meets high standards and your team is well-equipped.
• You maintain impeccable food, health, and safety standards, understand financial metrics like gross profit, stock control, and labor costs, and proactively identify opportunities for improvement.
• You focus on building and nurturing your team, supporting their personal and professional growth.
• You care about creating an environment where your team feels respected and valued, enabling them to thrive.
• You are a forward-thinking problem solver, able to make quick decisions and think on your feet.

We'd love to hear from you!

What's in it for you:

• Bonus scheme – up to £8,000 a year
• Access up to 30% of your earnings before payday with Wagestream
• Private medical insurance
• Free food on shift (anything from our menu) and 50% off outside of work
• 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 each shift
• Wagamama parties with VIP guests throughout the year
• National recognition as a Wok Star

Additional benefits include pension scheme, holiday entitlement, 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.