Lead Chef: Creative Menu Lead & Café Team Builder

Groundwork NE & Cumbria; Bere Alston; On-site; GBP 28,000 - 31,000; Full time

Job summary

Groundwork North East & Cumbria is seeking a Lead Chef to head the cafe kitchen at the Land of Oak & Iron Heritage Centre in Winlaton Mill, near Gateshead. You will lead the kitchen, shape the menu, and inspire a team while delivering delicious, locally sourced meals to visitors.

You will manage stock, uphold food safety standards, and develop seasonal offerings to grow the cafe’s reputation as a destination for locals and visitors alike.

Qualifications

• Experience leading or managing a kitchen.
• Strong leadership and team-building skills.
• Experience with menu planning and food cost management.
• Excellent knowledge of food hygiene and health & safety standards.
• Ability to thrive in a busy environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead the kitchen and ensure every dish meets high standards.
• Create seasonal menus and prepare fresh food.
• Manage stock and maintain food safety standards.
• Support your team and help grow the cafe's reputation.

Skills

Fresh food

Leadership

Menu planning

Food cost control

Food hygiene

Team coaching

Job description

Groundwork North East & Cumbria is seeking a Lead Chef to head the cafe kitchen at the Land of Oak & Iron Heritage Centre in Winlaton Mill, near Gateshead. You will lead the kitchen, shape the menu, and inspire a team while delivering delicious, locally sourced meals to visitors.

You will manage stock, uphold food safety standards, and develop seasonal offerings to grow the cafe’s reputation as a destination for locals and visitors alike.