Head Chef – Mediterranean Kitchen Innovator & Leader

The Boxford Group; Newbury; On-site; GBP 36,000 - 44,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Complimentary meals

28 days holiday

Life Assurance

Refer-a-friend scheme

Perkbox discounts

Career progression

Wellbeing programme

Job summary

The Boxford is a vibrant Mediterranean restaurant near Newbury, seeking a Head Chef to lead a high-performing kitchen team, crafting seasonal menus and delivering Rosette-level standards. You will drive culinary innovation, operational excellence, and a collaborative culture supporting growth and development.

With a 45-hour week and a £40,000pa salary plus tronc, you’ll shape the culinary direction, mentor staff, and maintain exceptional quality across ~65 covers (up to 90 at peak) in a

Qualifications

• Proven leadership experience in a busy kitchen.
• Strong mentoring and performance management skills.
• Qualified chef with relevant education and professional standards.

Responsibilities

• Inspire, lead and motivate the kitchen team to deliver exceptional service.
• Oversee food preparation, plating and Rosette-level standards.
• Lead menu development with seasonal, modern Italian flavours.
• Manage food budgets, GP targets and stock control.
• Ensure kitchen compliance with hygiene and safety policies.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Menu development

Cost control

Food safety & hygiene

Communication

Education

Leaving Cert level education or above

NVQ qualification or equivalent

Job description

The Boxford is a vibrant Mediterranean restaurant near Newbury, seeking a Head Chef to lead a high-performing kitchen team, crafting seasonal menus and delivering Rosette-level standards. You will drive culinary innovation, operational excellence, and a collaborative culture supporting growth and development.

With a 45-hour week and a £40,000pa salary plus tronc, you’ll shape the culinary direction, mentor staff, and maintain exceptional quality across ~65 covers (up to 90 at peak) in a