Kitchen Manager

Whitbread Plc; Dartford; On-site; GBP 34,000 - 41,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent UK hospitality company is seeking a passionate Kitchen Manager for their restaurant in Dartford. In this role, you will lead a dynamic kitchen team, ensure high-quality dishes are served, and maintain food safety standards. Ideal candidates will have experience as a Kitchen Manager or similar roles and a drive to inspire their team. Located conveniently in Dartford, this position offers competitive pay and benefits, making it a fantastic opportunity for culinary leaders to thrive.

Benefits

Competitive salary up to £41K

Generous bonus scheme

25% off in all Whitbread restaurants

Up to 50% off Premier Inn stays

Retail & leisure discounts

Full training & development

Real autonomy to run your kitchen

Qualifications

• Experience as a Kitchen Manager, Head Chef, or Catering Manager.
• Ability to inspire and develop a team.
• Strong attention to detail and quality standards.

Responsibilities

• Lead and motivate the kitchen team.
• Manage stock, food margins, and kitchen standards.
• Ensure food safety and compliance.
• Oversee recruitment and team development.
• Deliver high-quality dishes consistently.

Skills

Leadership

Cooking skills

Team management

Food safety knowledge

Job description

Key Responsibilities

• Leading and motivating your kitchen team with energy and passion
• Managing stock, food margins, and kitchen standards
• Owning food safety, audits, and compliance
• Supporting recruitment, onboarding, and team development
• Driving performance through regular 1:1s and coaching
• Delivering consistent, high-quality dishes to spec
• Working closely with a supportive General Manager

Our Commitment

We believe that everyone is unique and there should be no barriers to entry and no limits to ambition. We are committed to being an inclusive organisation that values diversity and welcomes your application whatever your background or situation. Under-represented groups such as women, ethnic minorities, people with disabilities & members of the LGBTQIA+ community (those who identify as lesbian, gay, bi, trans and non-binary or those who use a different LGBTQIA+ term), are strongly encouraged to build a career with us. Speak to us about workplace adjustments, part-time and flexible working. Where possible we will support this.

About the Role

Are you ready to lead a passionate kitchen team in a fast-paced, guest-focused environment? We're looking for a Kitchen Manager to take charge at The Beacon, a well-loved restaurant that combines classic British dining with a modern twist. Reporting into the General Manager, this is more than a job - it's your chance to run a high-performing kitchen, inspire your team, and deliver quality dishes that keep guests coming back. If you're an experienced Kitchen Manager, Head Chef, or Catering Manager who thrives in a high-volume setting, this is your opportunity to make a real impact. You will be hands‑on, detail‑driven, and passionate about food, people, and performance.

Located in Dartford, Kent, The Beacon Beefeater has a reputation for excellence. Positioned just off the M25 and close to Bluewater Shopping Centre, it is a prime spot for both locals and visitors. With easy transport links and a steady flow of guests from the nearby Premier Inn, you’ll enjoy a vibrant, high-energy environment where your leadership and culinary skills can truly shine.

Benefits

• Competitive salary up to £41K
• Generous bonus scheme
• 25% off in all Whitbread restaurants
• Up to 50% off Premier Inn stays
• Retail & leisure discounts - from cinema tickets to gym memberships
• Full training & development at our Kitchen Academy
• Real autonomy to run your kitchen your way