Inspirational Culinary Lead (Hiring Immediately)

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

Job summary

A leading culinary establishment in Hemel Hempstead is seeking a Senior Sous Chef to inspire and lead a kitchen team. The role emphasizes creating a positive working environment, maintaining high food standards, and driving restaurant performance. Candidates should possess strong leadership skills and a commitment to team development. Join us to make a difference in our culinary journey!

Benefits

Bonus scheme – up to £3,000 annually

Access up to 30% of earnings before payday with Wagestream

Share of tips

Free on-shift food from our menu

50% off outside work

Industry-leading family-friendly policies

Dry-cleaned chef whites provided

Wagamama parties with VIP guests

Recognition as a nationwide Wok Star

Pension and holiday benefits

Qualifications

• Experience leading a kitchen team as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef.
• Strong communication skills ensuring team support.

Responsibilities

• Foster a positive environment for team and guests.
• Ensure high standards in food, health, and safety.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem Solving

Job description

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Inspirational Culinary Lead (Hiring Immediately), Hemel Hempstead

Client: Wagamama

Location: Hemel Hempstead, United Kingdom

Job Category: Other

EU work permit required: Yes

Job Views:

4

Posted:

12.05.2025

Expiry Date:

26.06.2025

Job Description:

Senior Sous Chef | Full Time

At Wagamama, with over 165 restaurants, we celebrate individuality and diversity. We value personality over perfection—be you, be Wagamama. We are seeking a Senior Sous Chef to join us on our journey 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 continuous coaching and development to help your team excel, while driving restaurant performance and delivering exceptional results.

What You Bring:

• A focus on creating a positive environment where your team feels cared for and listened to, celebrating successes, nurturing talent, and role-modeling a coaching culture.
• Dedication to ensuring an excellent guest experience with dishes prepared to high standards, either through your own efforts or by empowering your team.
• Experience in maintaining spotless food, health, and safety standards, understanding financial aspects like gross profit, stock control, and labor costs, and proactively spotting opportunities.
• A commitment to building a coaching culture, working with your Head Chef on recruitment and ongoing development, fostering personal and professional growth.
• A forward-thinking 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, complex environment.
• Strong communication skills with genuine conversations, ensuring your team feels heard and supported.
• Proven experience maintaining high standards in food, health, safety, and financial performance.
• Ability to manage labor costs and adapt to changing demands.
• Leadership qualities that inspire and engage your team to thrive in their roles and careers.
• Passion for creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels respected and belongs.
• A proactive problem solver with quick thinking skills.

Benefits:

• Bonus scheme – up to £3,000 annually
• Access up to 30% of earnings before payday with Wagestream
• Share of tips (100% goes to the team, varies by restaurant)
• Free on-shift food from our menu, 50% off outside work
• Industry-leading family-friendly policies (26 weeks full pay + 13 weeks half pay for expectant or adopting parents)
• First access to new menus
• Dry-cleaned chef whites provided each shift
• Wagamama parties with VIP guests
• Recognition as a nationwide Wok Star

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

Be You, Be Wagamama

Wagamama is proudly part of Disability Confident.

*Tips are at guests' discretion, vary by restaurant, and are not guaranteed wages.