About the Role

We’re recruiting for a temporary Head Chef to lead the kitchen at a busy farmshop café bistro near Whitchurch. This role offers an immediate start, working in a friendly, fast-paced environment serving high-quality, seasonal dishes using local produce.

What You’ll Be Doing

As Temp Head Chef you will be responsible for the smooth running of kitchen operations during the assignment. Key duties include:

• Leading the kitchen team during service and ensuring consistent, well-presented dishes.
• Managing food preparation, cooking, plating and pass quality to venue standards.
• Overseeing stock control, ordering and portion costs to minimise wastage.
• Maintaining food safety, hygiene and allergen controls at all times.
• Creating clear prep lists, rotas and handover notes for continuity between shifts.
• Training and supporting junior cooks and kitchen porters as required.
• Adapting menus and production to meet seasonal supply and customer demand.

Role Details

• Location: Farmshop Café Bistro, near Whitchurch
• Hours: Variable; full time hours during the temporary assignment (shift patterns to be agreed)
• Rate: £19.61 per hour (inclusive of holiday pay where applicable)
• Contract: Temporary (length of assignment will be confirmed at interview)

What We’re Looking For

• Proven experience leading a busy kitchen, preferably in a café, bistro or farm-to-table setting.
• Strong ability to produce seasonal, ingredient-led dishes to a high standard.
• Sound understanding of food safety, HACCP and allergen management; Level 2 Food Hygiene minimum.
• Good organisational skills with experience of stock control and ordering.
• Clear communication and team leadership skills; able to motivate and support staff.
• Flexible, reliable and professional approach with a hands-on attitude.

Desirable

• Previous experience in a farmshop, deli or similar retail food environment.
• Level 3 culinary qualifications or equivalent experience.
• Valid driving licence (useful for supplier runs, but not essential).

Why Work With Us

Working with Chefs for Chefs gives you access to trusted temporary placements across quality hospitality businesses. You’ll benefit from:

• Competitive hourly pay with holiday pay included where applicable.
• Flexible, short-term placements that fit your availability.
• Support from a team of industry-experienced recruiters who understand kitchen life.
• Opportunities to work with seasonal, local suppliers and showcase culinary creativity.

How to Apply

If you’re ready to step in as Temp Head Chef and deliver excellent food and leadership, please apply with an up-to-date CV and availability. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and operate as an equal opportunities employer.

About Chefs for Chefs

Chefs for Chefs has extensive experience placing hospitality professionals in temporary and permanent roles. Our team are former chefs who understand the industry, and we’re committed to fair, inclusive recruitment for every vacancy.