Head Chef
🔒 Confidential Employer
Posted 8 May 2026
LOCATION
Exeter
TYPE
Full-time
LEVEL
Mid-Senior level
SALARY
£42,000 / year
CATEGORY
Hospitality & Catering
This role is not offered with visa sponsorship, though the employer is a licensed UK sponsor
SKILLS
Menu development
Team leadership
Food safety compliance
Inventory management
Creative seasonal cooking
People management
Profitability management
FULL DESCRIPTION
Head Chef
Head Chef – Lead the Culinary Vision at [Employer hidden — sign up to reveal]
This spring, [Employer hidden — sign up to reveal] is launching a brand-new casual dining restaurant in the heart of Exeter. We're looking for a talented Head Chef to take the lead from day one, shaping our menu, building a high-performing kitchen team and putting [Employer hidden — sign up to reveal] on the map as a go-to dining destination.
If you're a passionate chef with a vision for creative and seasonal cooking, and the skills to lead and inspire a team, this is your chance to make your mark.
Please note, this position cannot consider overseas applications. No visa sponsorship.
What We're Looking For:
- A creative and ambitious chef who can develop and shape a unique menu.
- Proven leadership experience in a busy, high-quality kitchen.
- A deep understanding of balancing innovation with profitability.
- Passion for sourcing quality ingredients and delivering outstanding dishes.
- A hands-on, proactive leader who thrives in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
- Please have your references ready at the time of application.
Your Responsibilities:
- Oversee all aspects of kitchen operations, ensuring high standards of food preparation and presentation.
- Lead, manage, and inspire the kitchen team, fostering a collaborative and positive work culture.
- Ensure compliance with food safety regulations and maintain a clean, organized kitchen.
- Take ownership of menu development, food production, and inventory management.
- Train and mentor team members, helping them develop and grow.
- Work closely with restaurant management to optimise service, costs, and efficiency.
What We Offer:
- A rare opportunity to shape and lead an exciting new kitchen from day one.
- Full support from an established, passionate, and independent team, with 20 years of experience running our sister restaurant, [Employer hidden — sign up to reveal].
- Competitive salary + performance-based bonuses.
- A sustainable work-life balance – because great food starts with a happy team.
- Accommodation option available for the right candidate.
Job Details:
- Job Type: Full-time
- Salary: £35,000 – £42,000 per year
- Additional Pay: Bonus scheme | Performance bonus | Tips
- Benefits: Employee discount | Sick pay | Company events
- Schedule: Weekend availability required
Experience:
- Min 4+ years of cooking in a professional kitchen
- Min 2+ years in a senior Chef position
- People management experience
Join us and make your mark on Exeter's hospitality scene. Be part of something new. Be part of something exciting.
Apply now with your CV and cover letter.
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