Kitchen Operations Director (Hiring Immediately)

JR United Kingdom; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a vibrant restaurant chain as a Head Chef, where individuality and diversity are celebrated. In this full-time role, you'll inspire and lead a passionate kitchen team, ensuring top-notch food quality and guest satisfaction. Your leadership will foster an inclusive environment while you manage kitchen operations and mentor your team. Enjoy a range of benefits, including a generous bonus scheme and private medical insurance, as you contribute to a culture of excellence and creativity. This is a fantastic opportunity to make a meaningful impact in a dynamic culinary setting.

Benefits

Bonus scheme up to £8,000 annually

Access to up to 30% of earnings before payday via Wagestream

Private medical insurance

Free shift meals from our menu

50% off meals outside of work

26 weeks full pay for expectant parents

Provided chef whites

Recognition programs

Pension and holidays

Gym memberships

Qualifications

• Experience leading a kitchen team focused on staff development.
• Strong understanding of food safety and health standards.

Responsibilities

• Lead and motivate the kitchen team for exceptional guest experiences.
• Manage kitchen operations including stock control and labor costs.

Skills

Team Leadership

Food Safety Standards

Financial Acumen

Problem-Solving

Inclusive Work Culture

Job description

Job Title: Head Chef | Full Time

About Wagamama

Celebrating individuality and diversity, Wagamama is a vibrant restaurant chain with over 165 locations. We prioritize personality over perfection, fostering an inclusive environment where everyone can be themselves.

Role Overview

We are seeking a Head Chef to inspire and lead our kitchen team, ensuring high standards of food quality, safety, and guest satisfaction. You will coach and develop your team, drive performance, and uphold our values of excellence and inclusivity.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and motivate your team to deliver exceptional guest experiences.
• Coach, develop, and mentor team members to reach their potential.
• Maintain high standards of food quality, health, and safety.
• Manage kitchen operations including stock control, gross profit, and labor costs.
• Foster an inclusive and respectful work environment.
• Solve problems proactively and make quick, effective decisions.

Qualifications & Skills

• Experience in leading a kitchen team with a focus on staff development.
• Strong understanding of food safety and health standards.
• Financial acumen related to kitchen operations.
• Ability to create an inclusive and positive work culture.
• Excellent problem-solving skills.

What We Offer

• Bonus scheme up to £8,000 annually.
• Access to up to 30% of earnings before payday via Wagestream.
• Private medical insurance.
• Free shift meals from our menu and 50% off outside of work.
• 26 weeks full pay and 13 weeks half pay for expectant or adopting parents.
• Opportunity to try new menus first.
• Provided chef whites.
• Wagamama parties and VIP events.
• Recognition programs including nationwide accolades.
• Additional benefits: pension, holidays, training, cycle schemes, discounts, gym memberships, and long service awards.

Additional Information

EU work permit is required. Wagamama is proud to be part of the Disability Confident scheme.