Hospitality and Retail Head Chef

JR United Kingdom; Reading; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 58,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company, Vacherin, seeks a Hospitality and Retail Head Chef for a bustling B&I site in Reading. The role involves managing a diverse team, ensuring high standards in food preparation, and innovating menu offerings. This is a full-time position with excellent benefits and a competitive salary.

Benefits

Personal development and training

Eye care

Wellbeing support

Family-friendly support

Social events

Recognition schemes

High street discount vouchers

Qualifications

• Experienced head chef with background in B&I contract catering or hotels with banqueting.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Strong leadership qualities.

Responsibilities

• Manage a team of 10-12 including Sous Chefs, Chef De Parties, and Kitchen Porters.
• Prepare and oversee food preparation to high standards.
• Maintain ingredient availability and uphold food quality standards.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Menu Planning

Job description

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Hospitality and Retail Head Chef, reading

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Client:

Vacherin

Location:

reading, United Kingdom

Job Category:

Other

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EU work permit required:

Yes

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Job Views:

3

Posted:

04.06.2025

Expiry Date:

19.07.2025

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Job Description:

Vacherin is committed to delivering deliciously different experiences, having fun, and conducting business with a social and environmental conscience. We are recruiting a Hospitality and Retail Head Chef to work at our site currently undergoing refurbishment.

About the site: This B&I site provides lunch for 400-550 people daily. We host hospitality events four times weekly and evening events for up to 350 people several times a week.

Location: EC2V 7QP

Rate of pay: £50,000 per annum + 1.5 overtime

Working pattern: Monday-Friday, 40 hours/week, 7am to 3.30pm

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage a team of 10-12 staff including Sous Chefs, Chef De Parties, Commis Chefs, and Kitchen Porters
• Prepare and oversee food preparation to high standards
• Ensure timely food production for smooth service
• Maintain ingredient availability for menus
• Develop and plan menus aligned with client and customer expectations
• Be creative in menu planning, involving clients and customers
• Uphold food quality and hygiene standards
• Manage the kitchen team overall
• Provide performance feedback and coaching
• Ensure team completion of COSHH and Food Hygiene training

Ideal Candidate:

• Experienced head chef with background in B&I contract catering or hotels with banqueting
• Excellent communication skills
• Strong leadership qualities
• Passionate about creating innovative retail and hospitality offerings

Benefits:

Working with Vacherin offers numerous benefits:

• Personal development and training
• Eye care
• Wellbeing support, including Employee Assistance Programme and salary finance
• Family-friendly support
• Social events and leadership communication
• Recognition schemes and awards
• Long service awards
• High street discount vouchers

Vacherin became part of CH&CO Catering Group Ltd in 2021.