Managing Head Chef

Location: Claygate, Surrey

Salary: £17–£20 per hour, depending on experience

Job Type: Full-Time

Working Pattern: 5 days over 7 – flexible rota

A Head Chef role built around flexibility and independence - with Profit % Incentives !

Are you an experienced Head Chef looking for a role where you can genuinely take ownership of the kitchen, while still having a rota that works around you?

My client is an independent neighbourhood venue in Claygate, Surrey, looking for a confident and reliable Head Chef to take responsibility for the kitchen and lead service across a busy daytime operation.

This is a great opportunity for a chef who enjoys working independently and wants the freedom to run their kitchen without unnecessary layers of management.

What’s on offer?

• £15–£20 per hour, depending on experience

• Profit % - Work hard and see the benefit!

• A flexible 5-day working pattern across a 7-day operation

• Alternate weekends off available

• Weekend half-day shifts can be accommodated

• Free or discounted meals while working

• The opportunity to take ownership of your own kitchen

• Friendly, supportive independent business

• Close-knit team and relaxed working environment

The Kitchen

The venue caters for approximately 60 covers in a relaxed, casual dining setting, with the majority of trade taking place during the day.

The kitchen operates with a small team, meaning this is a genuinely hands-on Head Chef position. You will be responsible for running the kitchen during your shifts, with junior chefs providing cover on your days off.

Alongside the regular lunch trade, the venue also hosts occasional evening events and private functions, including birthdays and other special occasions.

Your Responsibilities

As Head Chef, you will have responsibility for the day-to-day running of the kitchen, including:

• Preparing and cooking fresh, seasonal food to a consistently high standard

• Taking ownership of kitchen service and maintaining smooth operations

• Ordering stock and managing deliveries

• Maintaining effective stock rotation and minimising food waste

• Ensuring high standards of food hygiene, cleanliness and food safety

• Carrying out regular equipment checks and reporting maintenance requirements

• Helping the wider team during busy periods where required

• Maintaining a clean, organised and efficient kitchen

What are we looking for?

We're looking for an experienced Head Chef who is confident working independently and enjoys having responsibility for their own kitchen.

You'll ideally have:

• Previous experience working as a Head Chef

• A Level 2 Food Hygiene & Safety qualification

• Experience working independently or as the senior chef on site

• A calm and organised approach to busy services

• Good communication skills and fluent English

• A genuine passion for quality food and hospitality

• Full right to work in the UK

Interested?

If you're an experienced Head Chef looking for a more flexible opportunity where you can have genuine input and autonomy, this could be an excellent fit.

Apply now to discuss the role and find out more.
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