Kitchen Operations Director (Hiring Immediately)

JR United Kingdom; Norwich; On-site; GBP 28,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Head Chef to lead their kitchen team in creating memorable dining experiences. This full-time role emphasizes the importance of a positive and inclusive work environment, where emotional intelligence and effective delegation are key. The ideal candidate will have a passion for mentoring emerging leaders, ensuring every dish meets exceptional standards while managing kitchen financials. With a strong focus on personal and professional growth, this position offers a unique opportunity to thrive in a dynamic culinary setting, making a real impact on both the team and guests.

Benefits

Bonus scheme up to £8,000 annually

Access to earnings before payday

Private medical insurance

Free food on shift

50% off food outside work

Family-friendly policies

Dry-cleaned chef whites

Wagamama parties

Recognition program

Qualifications

• Experience in leading kitchen teams and maintaining high standards.
• Ability to coach and develop team members effectively.

Responsibilities

• Motivate and lead the kitchen team to deliver exceptional service.
• Ensure high food safety and health standards are maintained.

Skills

Emotional Intelligence

Team Leadership

Food Safety Standards

Problem Solving

Coaching and Mentoring

Job description

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Client:

wagamama

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Job Category:

Other

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EU work permit required:

Yes

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Job Views:

2

Posted:

08.05.2025

Expiry Date:

22.06.2025

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Job Description:

Head Chef | Full-time

At Wagamama, we celebrate individuality and diversity. With over 165 restaurants, we are looking for a Head Chef to inspire and lead our kitchen team, ensuring high standards and exceptional guest experiences. Join us on our journey to nourish both body and soul.

The role:

As a Head Chef, you will motivate your team to deliver outstanding service, maintaining high expectations and standards. You will coach, develop, and performance-manage your team to achieve their best, driving results and continuous improvement.

We are looking for someone who:

• Prioritizes creating a positive and inclusive work environment through emotional intelligence, inspiration, and effective delegation. You excel at training, coaching, and mentoring emerging leaders.
• Is dedicated to delivering excellent guest experiences, ensuring every dish meets exceptional standards, and empowering your team with necessary skills and mindset.
• Has experience maintaining impeccable food, health, and safety standards, and understands kitchen financials including gross profit, stock control, and labor costs.
• Focuses on building and nurturing your team from recruitment through ongoing development, fostering personal and professional growth.
• Creates an inclusive environment where team members feel respected and valued, enabling them to thrive in their roles and careers.
• Is a proactive problem-solver, capable of quick decision-making and thinking on your feet.

We'd love to hear from you!

What's in it for you?

• Bonus scheme – up to £8,000 annually
• Access up to 30% of your earnings before payday with Wagestream
• Private medical insurance
• Free food on shift from our menu, plus 50% off outside work for friends and family
• 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 through our program

Additionally, we offer pension schemes, holiday leave, 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.