Head Culinary Development Chef (Hiring Immediately)

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

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Senior Sous Chef to lead a vibrant kitchen team in a fast-paced restaurant environment. This role emphasizes individuality and diversity, where you will inspire your team while ensuring top-notch food quality and guest satisfaction. With a commitment to coaching and development, you will help foster a supportive culture that values respect and inclusivity. Enjoy a variety of perks, including a bonus scheme, generous parental policies, and opportunities for personal growth. Join a dynamic team dedicated to nourishing from bowl to soul!

Benefits

Bonus scheme – up to £3,000 annually

Access to earnings before payday via Wagestream

Share of tips

Free shift meals

50% off meals for friends and family

26 weeks full pay + 13 weeks half pay for parents

Opportunity to try new menus

Dry-cleaned chef whites

Wagamama parties and VIP events

Pension scheme and holiday entitlement

Qualifications

• Experience leading a kitchen team as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef.
• Proven ability to maintain high standards in food and safety.

Responsibilities

• Foster a positive environment for team and guests.
• Drive restaurant performance and deliver exceptional results.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem-solving

Food safety standards

Financial management

Job description

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Head Culinary Development Chef (Hiring Immediately), Southampton

Client: Wagamama

Location: Southampton, United Kingdom

Job Category: Other

EU work permit required: Yes

Job Views: 3

Posted: 08.05.2025

Expiry Date: 22.06.2025

Job Description:

Senior Sous Chef | Full Time

At Wagamama, we celebrate individuality and diversity. With over 165 restaurants, we are looking for a Senior Sous Chef to join our team and contribute to our mission to nourish from bowl to soul.

The role |

As a Senior Sous Chef, you will be an inspirational leader, fostering a positive environment for your team and guests. You will support ongoing coaching and development of your team, drive restaurant performance, and deliver exceptional results.

We are looking for someone who |

• Creates a caring and supportive environment, celebrating successes and nurturing talent, role modeling a coaching culture.
• Ensures an excellent guest experience by maintaining high standards in dish preparation and team skills.
• Maintains impeccable food, health, and safety standards; understands financial performance, including gross profit, stock control, and labor costs.
• Builds a coaching culture, working with the Head Chef on recruitment and ongoing development, fostering personal and professional growth.
• Is a proactive problem solver, capable of quick decision-making.

What we look for |

• Experience leading a kitchen team as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong communication skills, with a considerate and supportive approach.
• Proven experience in maintaining high standards in food, health, safety, and financial management.
• Ability to manage labor costs and adapt to changing demands.
• Leadership qualities that inspire and engage the team.
• Commitment to creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels respected and valued.
• Forward-thinking and adaptable problem-solving skills.

What’s in it for you |

• Bonus scheme – up to £3,000 annually
• Access up to 30% of earnings before payday via Wagestream
• Share of tips (tips are at guests' discretion and vary by restaurant)
• Free shift meals from our menu and 50% off outside of work for friends and family
• Industry-leading family-friendly policies, including 26 weeks full pay + 13 weeks half pay for expectant or adopting parents
• Opportunity to be the first to try new menus
• Dry-cleaned chef whites provided each shift
• Wagamama parties and VIP guest events throughout the year
• Recognition as a nationwide wok star through our national recognition programme

Additional benefits include pension scheme, holiday entitlement, training, cycle-to-work scheme, retail and leisure discounts, gym memberships, and long service awards.

Be you, be Wagamama

Wagamama is proudly part of the Disability Confident scheme.

*Tips are entirely at guest discretion; they are not guaranteed wages and vary by restaurant.