Head Chef - The Crown Inn

RedCat Pub Company; Old Dalby; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading dining establishment in Old Dalby is seeking a passionate Head Chef to lead a high-performing kitchen team. This role involves managing kitchen operations, overseeing P&L, and ensuring exceptional food quality. Candidates should be enthusiastic about local produce and maintaining high standards while fostering a positive kitchen culture. The position offers a supportive environment that values work/life balance, career development, and employee wellbeing.

Benefits

Bonuses up to 15% of salary

100% of tips distributed weekly

Access wages via Wagestream

Career development programs

Employee assistance programme

Food and accommodation discounts

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a Head Chef role with a focus on high standards.
• Strong leadership skills to manage and inspire a kitchen team.
• Passionate about local produce and culinary excellence.

Responsibilities

• Lead and inspire the kitchen team for memorable food experiences.
• Manage the kitchen P&L including costing, stock management, and labor.
• Ensure every dish meets exceptional standards for flavor and presentation.
• Own hygiene, compliance, and safe working practices.

Job description

Responsibilities

• 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. 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. 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 a true leader. Someone who cares about food, and about the people cooking it. If you want ownership, 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.

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.