Head Chef

Head Chef – Fresh Food Pub – Colchester

Location:

Colchester, Essex Job Type: Full-time, Permanent Salary: £40,000 per year A popular, well-established traditional pub in Colchester is looking for an experienced Head Chef to lead its busy fresh-food kitchen. This is an excellent opportunity for a talented, hands-on Head Chef with a passion for quality ingredients, classic pub food and delivering a consistently great experience for guests. You will take ownership of the kitchen, leading the team through busy services while maintaining high standards of food, hygiene and profitability.

Head Chef responsibilities Lead, motivate and develop the kitchen team Prepare and cook high-quality fresh food to a consistently high standard Create seasonal menus, daily specials and classic pub dishes Manage kitchen operations during busy lunch and dinner services Control stock, ordering, wastage and food costs Maintain strong GP margins and work within budget Ensure full food safety, hygiene and Health & Safety compliance Manage rotas, recruitment and training within the kitchen team Work closely with the General Manager to deliver an excellent guest experience Head Chef requirements Previous experience as a Head Chef , Kitchen Manager or experienced Sous Chef ready to step up Background in a busy fresh-food pub, gastropub, restaurant or hotel kitchen Strong knowledge of fresh, seasonal cooking and traditional British pub food Experience managing stock, ordering, menu costing and GP Confident leading a kitchen team in a high-volume environment Level 2 Food Hygiene qualification or equivalent A proactive, organised and positive approach Benefits Competitive salary of £40,000 per year Full-time, permanent Head Chef position Opportunity to shape menus and introduce your own ideas Join a popular, established pub with a strong local reputation Supportive management team and positive working environment Apply now with your CV to be considered for this Head Chef role in Colchester.