HEAD CHEF - EXCITING LEADERSHIP OPPORTUNITY

Job Posted: 10 April 2026

• Contract Term: Permanent
• Location: Bembridge, Isle of Wight
• Contract Type: Full time
• Salary: Dependant on experience
• Industries: Catering, Hospitality & Bar Chefs

We are seeking a talented and driven Head Chef to lead our kitchen team and deliver exceptional food experiences. This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced chef to take full ownership of a kitchen, shape menus, and drive standards in a dynamic and rewarding environment.

 The Role

As Head Chef, you will be responsible for the overall management of the kitchen, ensuring consistently high standards of food quality, presentation, and service. You will lead, inspire, and develop your team while maintaining strong control over costs, ordering, and daily operations.

Key Responsibilities

- Lead and manage all kitchen operations

- Design and develop seasonal menus

- Maintain high standards of food quality, consistency, and presentation

- Manage all food ordering, supplier relationships, and deliveries

- Control stock levels, stock rotation, and conduct regular stock takes

- Implement and enforce strict portion control to maintain consistency and achieve GP targets

- Monitor and manage food costs, margins (GP), and minimise wastage

- Recruit, train, and develop kitchen staff

- Ensure compliance with food safety, allergen, and hygiene regulations

- Maintain accurate records (HACCP, temperature logs, cleaning schedules)

- Work closely with management on business development and menu planning

 About You

- Proven experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef ready to step up

- Strong leadership and team management skills

- Solid understanding of food purchasing, stock control, portion control, and GP management

- Experience managing suppliers and negotiating pricing

- Strong knowledge of food safety, allergen management, and kitchen compliance

- Passion for high-quality food and innovation

- Excellent organisational and communication skills

- Ability to perform under pressure in a fast-paced environment

 Qualifications & Certifications

- Level 3 Food Safety & Hygiene (Supervising Food Safety) – essential

- Level 2 Food Allergen Awareness – essential

- HACCP training and practical application experience

- Relevant culinary qualification (NVQ Level 2/3 or equivalent) preferred

- Health & Safety training (e.g. COSHH awareness) desirable

- First Aid qualification (preferred but not essential)

What We Offer

- Competitive salary (dependent on experience)

- Creative input and menu autonomy

- Supportive management team

- Opportunities for progression and development

If you’re ready to take the lead, control your kitchen, and make a real impact on both food quality and profitability, we’d love to hear from you. Apply now with your CV and covering letter to Sara Smith, House Manager, [email protected]