Kitchen Operations Director (Hiring Immediately)

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

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dynamic Head Chef to lead a passionate team in delivering exceptional dining experiences. This role emphasizes individuality and diversity, allowing you to inspire your team while maintaining high standards in food quality and guest satisfaction. You will play a crucial role in fostering an inclusive environment, mentoring emerging leaders, and ensuring operational excellence. With a generous bonus scheme and a range of perks, this opportunity is perfect for those who thrive in a fast-paced, rewarding environment. Join us and be part of a journey that nourishes both body and soul.

Benefits

Bonus scheme up to £8,000

Access to earnings before payday

Private medical insurance

Free food on shift

50% off food outside of work

Family-friendly policy

Dry-cleaned chef whites

Recognition programme

Pension schemes

Gym memberships

Qualifications

• Experience in leading kitchen teams and maintaining high food standards.
• Strong focus on team development and creating an inclusive work culture.

Responsibilities

• Inspire and coach your team to deliver exceptional guest experiences.
• Maintain high food, health, and safety standards while managing costs.

Skills

Emotional Intelligence

Coaching and Mentorship

Food Safety Standards

Financial Management

Problem Solving

Job description

Social network you want to login/join with:

col-narrow-left

Client:

wagamama

Location:

Job Category:

Other

-

EU work permit required:

Yes

col-narrow-right

Job Views:

2

Posted:

08.05.2025

Expiry Date:

22.06.2025

col-wide

Job Description:

Head Chef | Full time

At Wagamama, we celebrate individuality and diversity. With over 165 restaurants, we focus on personality over perfection — we call it "be you, be wagamama." We are looking for a Head Manager to join us on our journey to nourish both body and soul.

The role |

As a Head Chef, you'll inspire your team to deliver exceptional guest experiences, maintaining high standards. You'll coach and develop your team to reach their potential, driving performance and achieving outstanding results.

If you |

• Prioritize creating a positive, inclusive work culture through emotional intelligence, inspiration, and effective delegation. You excel at influencing and empowering emerging leaders through training, coaching, and mentorship.
• Are committed to excellence in guest experience, ensuring every dish meets high standards, either through your own efforts or by equipping your team with the necessary skills and mindset.
• Have experience maintaining impeccable food, health, and safety standards, and understanding financial aspects like gross profit, stock control, and labour costs, proactively spotting opportunities.
• Focus on building and nurturing your team, from recruitment to ongoing development, fostering personal and professional growth.
• Care about creating an inclusive environment where your team feels respected and valued, enabling them to thrive in their roles and careers.
• Are a forward-thinking problem solver, able to think on your feet and make quick decisions.

We'd love to hear from you

What’s in it for you |

• Bonus scheme – up to £8,000 a year bonus opportunity
• Access up to 30% of your earnings before payday with Wagestream
• Private medical insurance
• Free food on shift — anything from our menu! Plus 50% off outside of work to treat friends and family
• Industry-leading family-friendly policy (expectant or adopting parents receive 26 weeks full pay + 13 weeks half pay)
• Be the first to experience our new menus
• Dry-cleaned chef whites provided every shift
• Wagamama parties throughout the year with VIP guests
• Nationwide recognition as a "Wok Star" through our recognition programme

Additionally, we offer pension schemes, holiday, training, cycle-to-work schemes, retail and leisure discounts, gym memberships, and long service awards.

Be you, be Wagamama

Wagamama is proudly part of the Disability Confident scheme.