Head Culinary Development Chef (Hiring Immediately)

JR United Kingdom; Reading; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative culinary establishment is seeking a Senior Sous Chef to lead their kitchen team. This role emphasizes creating a supportive atmosphere while ensuring exceptional food quality and safety standards. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership and communication skills, drive performance in a dynamic environment, and foster a culture of growth and inclusivity. With enticing perks like a generous bonus scheme and discounts, this is an exciting opportunity for culinary professionals looking to make a significant impact in their careers.

Benefits

Bonus scheme up to £3,000 annually

Access to earnings before payday

Tips share

Free on-shift food

50% discount for friends and family

Family-friendly policies

Early access to new menus

Dry-cleaned chef whites

Wagamama parties

Pension schemes

Qualifications

• Experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong leadership qualities to inspire kitchen teams.

Responsibilities

• Foster a positive environment and support team development.
• Maintain high standards in dish preparation and food safety.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Food Safety Standards

Financial Management

Problem Solving

Job description

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Head Culinary Development Chef (Hiring Immediately), reading

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Client:

wagamama

Location:

reading, United Kingdom

Job Category:

Other

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EU work permit required:

Yes

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Job Views:

3

Posted:

08.05.2025

Expiry Date:

22.06.2025

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Job Description:

Senior Sous Chef | Full-time

At Wagamama, we celebrate individuality and diversity, emphasizing personality over perfection—our philosophy is 'be you, be Wagamama'. With over 165 restaurants, we are seeking a Senior Sous Chef to join us on our journey to nourish both body and soul.

The role |

As a Senior Sous Chef, you will be an inspiring leader, fostering a positive environment for your team and guests. You will support continuous coaching and development of your team to excel while driving restaurant performance and achieving excellent results.

We are looking for someone who |

• Creates a positive environment where your team feels valued and supported, celebrating successes and nurturing talent with a coaching culture.
• Ensures an exceptional guest experience by maintaining high standards in dish preparation and equipping your team with necessary skills and mindset.
• Maintains impeccable food, health, and safety standards, understands financial aspects like gross profit, stock control, and labor costs, and proactively spots opportunities for improvement.
• Builds a coaching culture within the team, working closely with the Head Chef on recruitment and ongoing development, fostering personal and professional growth.
• Is a forward-thinking problem solver, capable of quick decision-making and adaptability.

What we look for |

• Experience leading a kitchen team as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef, driving performance in a fast-paced, complex environment.
• Strong communication skills with genuine conversations that ensure team members feel heard and supported.
• Proven experience maintaining high standards in food, health, safety, and financial management including gross profit and stock control.
• Ability to manage labor costs efficiently and adapt to changing demands.
• Leadership qualities that inspire and engage teams to thrive in their roles and careers.
• Passion for creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels respected and belonging.
• A proactive problem solver, quick thinker, and decisive decision-maker.

What’s in it for you |

• Bonus scheme up to £3,000 annually
• Access up to 30% of earnings before payday via Wagestream
• Tips share
• Free on-shift food from our menu plus 50% discount outside work for friends and family
• Industry-leading family-friendly policies, including 26 weeks full pay + 13 weeks half pay for expectant or adopting parents
• Early access to new menus
• Dry-cleaned chef whites provided each shift
• Wagamama parties with VIP guests throughout the year
• Recognition as a nationwide Wok Star through our national recognition program

Additionally, we offer pension schemes, holiday leave, training, cycle-to-work schemes, retail and leisure discounts, gym memberships, and long service awards.

Be you, be Wagamama

Wagamama is proudly part of Disability Confident.

*100% of tips go to our teams. Tips vary by restaurant and are at guest discretion. Tips are not considered wages and are not guaranteed.