Head Chef - The Crown Inn

RedCat Pub Company; Melton Mowbray; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A renowned pub company in the UK is seeking an experienced Head Chef for The Crown Inn in Old Dalby. This role involves leading a dynamic kitchen team, managing kitchen operations, and ensuring exceptional food quality. The ideal candidate is a proactive leader passionate about culinary excellence and local produce. This opportunity offers an engaging and supportive work environment with a strong emphasis on work/life balance and employee development.

Benefits

Work-life balance

Quarterly bonus up to 15%

Tronc scheme for gratuities

Employee assistance programme

Food and accommodation discounts

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Head Chef or strong Sous Chef.
• Ability to lead a team and manage kitchen operations.
• Passionate about culinary arts and local produce.

Responsibilities

• Lead and inspire the kitchen team for memorable food experiences.
• Control kitchen P&L, stock management, and labor costs.
• Ensure high standards of hygiene, compliance, and safe working practices.

Skills

Leadership

Kitchen management

Culinary excellence

Team training and development

Local produce knowledge

Job description

Why work for us?

• Work/Life Balance?A genuine belief in work/life balance and an understanding of working together to promote flexibility
• Bonus? Up to 15% of salary able to be achieved on a quarterly basis
• Tips?A Tronc scheme with 100% of gratuities distributed to our teams every week via TipJar
• Financial Support? Access wages as you earn them through Wagestream,
• Development?Inspirational career development programmes
• Recognition?Dedicated reward and recognition platform
• Discounts?Food and Accommodation discounts nationwide
• Personal support?Employee assistance programme and wellbeing support

This isn’t just another Head Chef job — this is your chance to take the reins of a kitchen that lives and breathes our Core Values

Driven by people, Inspired by Innovation and Crafted for Guests.

Here, we don’t just want a Head Chef to run the pass — we want atrue leader. Someone who cares about food, and about the people cooking it.

If you wantownership, influence, and a role that respects your craft, you’re in the right place.

Nestled in the heart of the picturesque village of Old Dalby, The Crown Inn is a beautifully restored 17th-century pub that seamlessly blends historic charm with contemporary sophistication. Following an extensive investment in 2024, the pub offers guests a warm and inviting atmosphere, featuring cozy rooms, open fires, and a modern extension with floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook the landscaped garden, providing an ideal setting for outdoor dining during warmer months.

Culinary excellence is at the forefront of The Crown Inn's offerings. The chef-led kitchen presents seasonal and locally sourced menus that change regularly, showcasing a delightful array of dishes to cater to diverse tastes. Guests can indulge in delectable appetizers, mouthwatering main courses, and sweet treats, complemented by an impressive selection of handcrafted cocktails, fine wines, craft beers, and non-alcoholic options.

The Crown Inn is part of our Distinctive Collection, known for its unique character and commitment to quality. The pub's bar area is cozy and traditional, offering a welcoming space to relax by the open fire.

The job in a nutshell

• Lead and inspire the team to deliver consistent, memorable food experiences
• Control the kitchen P&L - from costing to stock management and labour
• Recruit, train and develop a high performing, happy kitchen team
• Ensure every plate meets exceptional standards for flavour, presentation and wow factor
• Own hygiene, compliance and safe working practices

What we are looking for:

• An experienced Head Chef or strong Sous Chef looking to make a difference
• A people-first leader who knows happy kitchens make the best food
• Confident in managing both service and systems
• Passionate about local produce, seasonal dishes, and a positive kitchen culture
• Someone who is calm under pressure, has high standards and a passion for culinary excellence

Ready to run a kitchen that runs on trust and talent?Apply now and lets talk about where your leadership could take you next
INDHP