Job Description

Job Title: Head Chef

Location: Stooks Cafe, Newbridge Nurseries, Broadbridge Heath, Horsham

Contract Type: Full-Time | Permanent

Hours: Daytime shifts only | No evenings | Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year's Day, and Easter Sunday

Salary: Competitive, dependent on experience

Join Us at Stooks Cafe - Where Fresh Food and Work-Life Balance Come Together

Nestled in the heart of

Newbridge Nurseries

,

Stooks Cafe

is a vibrant, high-quality cafe with a loyal customer base and a focus on seasonal, freshly prepared dishes. We pride ourselves on delivering comforting classics alongside contemporary plates, all served in a relaxed, welcoming environment.

We are currently seeking a

passionate and experienced Head Chef

to lead our kitchen team. This is an exciting opportunity for a culinary professional who values creativity, teamwork, and quality - and who is looking to strike the perfect balance between career and life outside of the kitchen.

About the Role

As Head Chef, you will be responsible for the overall running of the kitchen, ensuring the highest standards of food preparation, presentation, and safety. You'll work closely with the Cafe Manager and wider team to maintain a strong food-led offering that reflects the values of Stooks Cafe: local, fresh, and made with care.

Key Responsibilities

Kitchen Leadership & Operations

Lead, inspire, and manage the kitchen team with positivity and professionalism. Organise day-to-day kitchen operations including prep, service, and closing duties. Create a nurturing, supportive team culture, encouraging development and high morale. Implement efficient rota management and ensure adequate staffing at all times.

Menu Planning & Development

Design and update seasonal menus with appealing, creative dishes aligned with customer expectations. Maintain a balance of comforting staples and innovative specials that reflect current trends and dietary needs. Collaborate with suppliers to source fresh, local ingredients wherever possible.

Health, Safety & Compliance

Ensure the kitchen operates in full accordance with food hygiene, allergen, and safety regulations. Maintain a 5-star food hygiene rating through excellent kitchen standards and procedures. Oversee cleaning routines, stock rotation, and daily food safety checks.

Stock & Financial Management

Monitor stock levels, order supplies, and manage wastage to maximise profitability. Work within budgetary guidelines while maintaining quality and consistency. Review and analyse kitchen performance, adjusting processes where necessary.

Who We're Looking For

We are looking for someone who is not only a talented chef, but also a collaborative leader and team player. You will be calm under pressure, highly organised, and committed to delivering great food with integrity and flair.

Essential Skills & Experience

Proven experience in a senior kitchen role, ideally as Head Chef or Sous Chef. Strong understanding of kitchen management, food cost control, and health and safety. Creativity and passion for quality, seasonal food. Excellent communication, leadership, and people management skills. Ability to work well independently and as part of a team.

Desirable

Experience in a high-volume cafe or daytime dining environment. Familiarity with vegetarian, vegan, and allergen-friendly cooking.

What We Offer

A supportive and respectful working environment within a family-run business. Sociable, daytime-only hours -

no evening shifts

.

Guaranteed time off on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year's Day, and Easter Sunday

. 28 days holiday (including bank holidays), with opportunities for additional time off. Free parking on site. Staff discount across the nursery and cafe. Opportunities for creative input and menu development. A chance to work in a beautiful, rural setting with a passionate and friendly team.

Apply Now

If you're a talented Head Chef looking for a new challenge that celebrates quality food, teamwork, and balance, we'd love to hear from you.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: 37,500.00 per year

Work Location: In person

Reference ID: Stooks HC