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Head Chef

New
  • Location: Leiston
  • Salary: £40000 - £45000 per annum
  • Job Type:Permanent
  • Sector: Hospitality
  • Contact: Stew Redmond
  • Contact Email: s.redmond@select.co.uk
  • Contact Phone: 01603615511
  • Job Ref: SF64135
Head Chef – Exciting Hospitality Opportunity - Suffolk 
Salary: £40,000 - £45,000 DOE
Hours: 45 hours per week
Job Type: Full-time, Permanent

About the Role:
Select Recruitment is proud to be working with a well-established hospitality venue seeking a skilled and passionate Head Chef to lead their kitchen operations. This is an excellent opportunity for a creative and organised culinary professional to take charge of a dedicated team and develop an exciting menu that caters to a diverse clientele and special events.

You'll have full responsibility for all aspects of kitchen management – from food quality and presentation to safety standards, stock control, and team leadership. This role is ideal for a chef who takes genuine pride in delivering exceptional food in a welcoming environment.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Oversee the preparation, cooking, and presentation of food to consistently high standards
  • Develop seasonal menus and daily specials that meet the needs of customers and guests
  • Ensure full compliance with food safety, hygiene, and health & safety regulations at all times
  • Manage stock levels, order supplies, and maintain budgeted food costs
  • Train, motivate, and lead the kitchen team, ensuring effective communication and strong teamwork
  • Coordinate catering for events, buffets, private functions, and themed evenings
  • Maintain a clean, organised, and legally compliant kitchen environment
  • Work closely with management to align food offerings with events and promotional activities
Essential Skills & Experience:
  • Proven experience in a Head Chef or senior kitchen role
  • Excellent culinary skills with the ability to deliver consistent quality under pressure
  • Strong leadership and team management capabilities
  • Solid understanding of food hygiene standards, HACCP, and allergen awareness
  • Excellent organisational and time-management abilities
  • A hands-on, flexible approach with willingness to support across all areas of the kitchen
Desirable Qualifications:
  • Level 2 or 3 Food Safety & Hygiene Certificate
  • Relevant culinary qualifications (e.g. NVQ, City & Guilds, etc.)
  • Experience with menu costing, stock systems, and kitchen compliance documentation
What's On Offer:
  • Competitive salary package
  • Employee discount benefits
  • Full PPE provided
  • Opportunity to work with quality, locally sourced ingredients
  • Supportive working environment with scope for creativity
To Apply:
If you're a passionate Head Chef looking for your next challenge, we'd love to hear from you. Please submit your CV and application to Stew at Select Recruitment.