Italian Kitchen Leader — High-Energy Head Chef

Zizzi; Redbourn; On-site; GBP 42,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual bonus up to £7000

Stream wage access

Free meals on shift

50% off when not on shift

24/7 Virtual GP

Employee Assistance Program

Discounts on travel

Job summary

Zizzi is seeking a Head Chef to lead our open kitchen with energy, passion, and fun. You’ll partner with the General Manager to own food quality and financial results, shaping a high-energy culture and inspiring your team.

As Head Chef you’ll drive cost control, stock management, and service excellence across dine-in and delivery channels, while mentoring growth and maintaining top kitchen standards.

Qualifications

• High standards and a passion for Italian food.
• Proven leadership experience running a team in a high-volume, multi-channel kitchen.
• Proven experience in managing costs, stock control, and labour budgets.
• Ability to stay calm, organised, and lead from the front during busy times (evenings, weekends, holidays).
• A people person who can motivate, coach, and develop their team.
• An uncompromising eye for consistency, kitchen cleanliness, and food safety standards.

Responsibilities

• Lead your kitchen team to deliver exceptional food quality - every plate, every service.
• Flawlessly manage high-volume delivery channels alongside a busy dine-in restaurant.
• Recruit, train, and develop a motivated team.
• Act as a role model for safety, ensuring kitchen cleanliness, compliance, and food safety.
• Take ownership of kitchen performance, mastering food costs, labour, and service metrics.
• Work closely with the General Manager to drive commercial results and create a standout restaurant experience.

Skills

Leadership

Cost control

Stock management

Labour budgeting

Team coaching

Job description

Zizzi is seeking a Head Chef to lead our open kitchen with energy, passion, and fun. You’ll partner with the General Manager to own food quality and financial results, shaping a high-energy culture and inspiring your team.

As Head Chef you’ll drive cost control, stock management, and service excellence across dine-in and delivery channels, while mentoring growth and maintaining top kitchen standards.