Job Description

We are seeking an experienced, creative, and highly organised HeadChef to lead our busy garden centre restaurant, Tea Rooms and Express Takeaway outlet. The successful candidate will oversee all aspects of food preparation, menu development, and kitchen management, ensuring consistently high-quality, freshly prepared dishes.

You will play a key role in shaping the food operation's reputation for great food and friendly service, managing a small but dynamic team in a fast-paced, daytime-only environment.

Key Duties

Your key duties will include but not be limited to:

Control and direct the food preparation processes in all food outlets within the garden centre. Construct menus in conjunction with the directors taking into consideration the use of quality ingredients, seasonality, allergens, dietary requirements and value for money. Work with suppliers to ensure pricing and quality remains consistent. Oversee the maintenance of all equipment within the kitchen and report all issues that require specialist attention. Manage the ordering of all food and related items to always allow for the smooth operation of the kitchens. Ensure that all deliveries are matched to orders and invoices and signed off for the accounts team. Train and mentor the team to allow them to be the very best versions of themselves they can be. In conjunction with the Catering Director actively be involved in the hiring and induction of new catering team members. Deliver a 5 star 'scores on the doors' food rating. Oversee the management of the HACCP paperwork and ensure all team members are trained on their importance and the procedures that must be followed. Have total responsibility for health & safety within the kitchen operations. Work closely with the front of house team to ensure, as a team, the operations deliver a first class guest experience. Control kitchen wage costs in line with budgets and forecasts. Control the food cost in line with budgets.

Requirements

Proven track record as a Head Chef in a similar sized operation. Passion for all things food. Capable of communicating effectively with the Directors. "Can do" attitude is essential. The ability to remain calm under pressure. Required to be in the business on the busiest days of the year and for busy services. Excellent communication skills both written and verbally to deal with guests and team members. Be very comfortable working in a volume driven operation. The kitchens are dynamic and fast paced which requires careful organisation. Experience in working with MS Word and Excel.

Rewards and Benefits:

We believe in recognising and rewarding your hard work:

Salary: 40-42k per annum (depending on experience) Health & Dental Plan Staff discounts in the Restaurant and Garden Centre. Ongoing training and development tailored to your needs.
If you're ready to bring your culinary expertise to our team, please submit your application today and be part of our journey to deliver exceptional dining experiences at the Railway Restaurant.

Reporting to: Catering Director

Hours: Full time - 45 hours minimum per week

Salaried (40-42k depending on experience)

08:00hrs - 17:00hrs (with some flexibility for occasional events)

Working at the Old Railway Line Garden Centre

About Us:

The Old Railway Line Garden Centre is a family-run, independent haven that blends a Garden Centre, Farm Shop, and Restaurant. Our offerings encompass the finest gardening, home, and outdoor living products alongside delectable locally produced food and beverages. Nestled at the base of the Black Mountains, with picturesque views of the Brecon Beacons and the Radnorshire Hills, we're located in the heart of the scenic Wye Valley.

Our Mission & Values:

A family run destination for all. We are passionate about plants, people and the planet. Growing ideas through an inspiring, personal and enjoyable retail experience.

Family

The Old Railway Line family is a passionate team, all working towards the same mission and values. A family run, independent business creating a retail space to promote well-being. Supporting our team to succeed & achieve their goals. We see our customers as our extended family, who play an integral part in our growth & success.

Community

To be an integral part of our local community. Supporting local groups & schools with projects. Raising money for local & national charities. We promote mutual support with other local businesses.

Sustainability

We are passionate and proactive in reducing our impact on the environment. We love to promote the benefits of gardening on the planet. We consider environmental factors when choosing suppliers, products and planning future projects.

Passionate

We are passionate about plants, gardening & excellent customer service. We enjoy creating a 'wow' experience that inspires our customers. We love horticulture & collaborate with other Garden Centres and industry groups to enhance our customer experience.

Knowledgeable

We love to share information about plants, gardening and all products we stock. We invest in training our team to be experts. We encourage team members to pass on knowledge and experience to others. We are known for our helpful, experienced team who are always happy to offer help and advice.
If you're seeking a fulfilling career in an environment that mirrors our mission and values, the Old Railway Line Garden Centre invites you to join our family. Experience the rewarding journey of contributing to our vision while being surrounded by a team that's equally passionate about plants, people, and the planet.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: 40,000.00-42,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Company events Employee discount Health & wellbeing programme
Work Location: In person