Kitchen Operations Leader (Hiring Immediately)

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

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a passionate Kitchen Operations Leader to join their dynamic team in Maidstone. This exciting role involves inspiring your kitchen team to deliver exceptional guest experiences while maintaining high standards of food safety and operational excellence. You will play a crucial part in fostering a positive and inclusive work culture, empowering your team through training and mentorship. With a strong focus on performance and development, you will have the opportunity to make a significant impact in a vibrant and supportive environment. If you are a forward-thinking leader with a passion for culinary excellence, this is the perfect opportunity for you.

Benefits

Bonus scheme up to £8,000

Access to earnings before payday

Private medical insurance

Free food on shift

50% off for friends and family

26 weeks full pay for expectant parents

Dry-cleaned chef whites

Recognition programme

Pension schemes

Gym memberships

Qualifications

• Inspire and lead your team to deliver exceptional guest experiences.
• Maintain high standards of food safety and financial management.

Responsibilities

• Drive performance and ensure excellent results in kitchen operations.
• Foster a positive and inclusive work culture among team members.

Skills

Emotional Intelligence

Training and Coaching

Food Safety Standards

Financial Management

Team Building

Problem Solving

Job description

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Kitchen Operations Leader (Hiring Immediately), Maidstone

Client: Wagamama

Location: Maidstone, United Kingdom

Job Category: Other

EU work permit required: Yes

Job Views: 4

Posted: 08.05.2025

Expiry Date: 22.06.2025

Job Description:

Head Chef | Full Time | Tunbridge Wells

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 Kitchen Operations Leader to join us on our journey to nourish both body and soul.

The Role

As a Head Chef, you will inspire your team to deliver exceptional guest experiences, maintain high standards, and continuously develop your team to reach their full potential. You will drive performance and ensure excellent results.

About You

• Prioritize creating a positive and inclusive work culture through emotional intelligence, inspiration, and effective delegation. You excel at training, coaching, and mentoring emerging leaders.
• Dedicated to delivering excellence in guest experience, ensuring every dish meets exceptional standards, and empowering your team with the necessary skills and mindset.
• Experienced in maintaining food safety, health, and safety standards, and knowledgeable about financial aspects such as gross profit, stock control, and labor costs, proactively spotting opportunities for improvement.
• Focused on building and nurturing your team, from recruitment to ongoing development, fostering personal and professional growth.
• Committed to creating an inclusive environment where team members feel respected and valued, enabling them to thrive in their roles and careers.
• A forward-thinking problem solver, capable of quick decision-making and thinking on your feet.

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 for friends and family
• Industry-leading family-friendly policy: 26 weeks full pay + 13 weeks half pay for expectant or adopting parents
• 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

We also 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.