Location: Chelmsford
Salary: £35,000 per annum
Contract Type: Permanent
Hours: 40 hours per week (retail-style hours – no evenings or split shifts)
Are you an experienced Head Chef ready for your next challenge? This is a fantastic opportunity to lead a busy café kitchen within a well-established, family-run business that continues to grow across the Southeast of England.
About the Role
As Head Chef, you’ll be responsible for delivering a high-quality menu and ensuring smooth, efficient kitchen operations. You’ll lead from the front, managing and motivating a team to provide excellent customer service while maintaining speed, consistency, and presentation. Working closely with the General Manager, you’ll also play a key role in driving profitability and operational success.
Key Responsibilities
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Oversee all food preparation, ensuring quality and consistency
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Lead, train, and manage kitchen staff, motivating the team to deliver results
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Manage ordering, stock control, and budgeting effectively
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Maintain smooth service, especially during peak trading periods
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Uphold high standards of food hygiene, health & safety compliance
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Approve dishes before service to meet company standards
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Contribute to menu development with creativity and innovation
What’s on Offer
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Competitive salary £35,000
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15% staff discount (rising to 20% after 5 years of service)
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29 days holiday including bank holidays
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Benefits & rewards system
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Flexible hours with no evenings or split shifts
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Genuine progression opportunities within a growing business
Requirements
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Previous experience in a Head Chef or senior kitchen leadership role
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Strong organisational and time management skills
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Excellent knowledge of food hygiene and health & safety regulations
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Ability to motivate and lead a diverse team in a fast-paced environment
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Strong communication skills to liaise across kitchen and front-of-house teams
Why Apply?
This role offers the chance to join a supportive, family-run company with excellent work–life balance, genuine progression opportunities, and a strong focus on staff development.