head chef - Innovative Culinary Leadership (Hiring Immediately)

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

Job summary

An innovative culinary leadership opportunity awaits in a vibrant restaurant environment. As a Head Chef, you will inspire a dynamic kitchen team, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement. Your leadership will ensure exceptional guest experiences while maintaining high food quality and safety standards. With a commitment to inclusivity and team development, you will create a positive work culture where every team member feels valued. This role offers a chance to influence and shape the culinary landscape while enjoying competitive perks and benefits that support your personal and professional growth.

Benefits

Bonus scheme – up to £8,000 a year

Access to earnings before payday

Private medical insurance

Free food on shift

50% discount outside of work

26 weeks full pay for expectant parents

Dry-cleaned chef whites provided

Wagamama parties and VIP events

Pension scheme

Gym memberships

Qualifications

• Experience in leading kitchen teams and ensuring high food quality.
• Ability to manage kitchen financials and improve operational efficiency.

Responsibilities

• Motivate and lead the kitchen team to deliver outstanding guest experiences.
• Ensure food quality and safety standards are met consistently.

Skills

Emotional Intelligence

Team Management

Problem Solving

Food Quality Assurance

Financial Management

Job description

Head Chef - Innovative Culinary Leadership (Hiring Immediately), Luton, Bedfordshire

Client: wagamama

Location: Luton, Bedfordshire, 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, we celebrate individuality and diversity. With over 165 restaurants, we are looking for a Head Chef to inspire and lead our kitchen team, ensuring exceptional standards and a positive work environment.

The Role:

As a Head Chef, you will motivate your team to deliver outstanding guest experiences, maintain high standards, and foster a culture of continuous improvement and excellence.

We'd Love to Hear From You If You:

• Prioritize creating an inclusive and positive work culture through emotional intelligence, inspiration, and effective delegation. You excel in training, coaching, and mentoring emerging leaders.
• Are committed to delivering exceptional guest experiences, ensuring food quality and safety standards are met.
• Have experience managing kitchen financials, including gross profit, stock control, and labour costs, and proactively spotting opportunities for improvement.
• Focus on building and developing your team, supporting their personal and professional growth.
• Care about creating an environment where your team feels respected and valued, enabling them to thrive.
• Are a proactive problem solver, capable of quick decision-making and thinking on your feet.

Wagamama Offers:

• 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 and 50% discount outside of work
• Industry-leading family-friendly policies, including 26 weeks full pay and 13 weeks half pay for expectant or adopting parents
• Opportunity to experience new menus first
• Dry-cleaned chef whites provided each shift
• Wagamama parties and VIP events throughout the year
• National recognition through our 'Wok Star' program

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.