Head Chef: Lead a High-Standard Lounge Kitchen

Loungers plc; Rayleigh; On-site; GBP 42,000 - 52,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive base salary

Bonus scheme

Overtime pay

Free meal on shift

50% discount on food and drinks

Loungefest party

Early access to pay

Charity support

Job summary

This hands-on role offers a competitive base salary with bonus, overtime, and clear progression through in-house training. 40- or 48-hour contracts, with staff perks and a supportive culture across Loungers brands.

Qualifications

• A natural people leader who builds loyal kitchen teams.
• A cook who genuinely cares about fresh ingredients and high standards.
• A kitchen leader who coaches from the line with clear development plans.
• Commercially minded with GP, labour, stock, wastage KPIs.

Responsibilities

• Take full ownership of the kitchen at Manzano Lounge from open to close.
• Recruit, develop and coach kitchen staff across levels.
• Know menu specs and processes to ensure every dish leaves the pass correctly.
• Own a site-level action plan with the GM covering stock, cleanliness and timings.
• Deliver kitchen KPIs and report on performance per shift.
• Schedule rotas aligned to sales and bookings forecasts and ensure coverage.

Skills

People leadership

Kitchen management

Food quality focus

Mentoring

Job description

This hands-on role offers a competitive base salary with bonus, overtime, and clear progression through in-house training. 40- or 48-hour contracts, with staff perks and a supportive culture across Loungers brands.