Job Description

Job Title: Head Chef (Full-Time)
Location: Middlesbrough - Asian-Fusion Buffet Restaurant
Employment Type: Full-time
Salary: 40,000-45,000 per year + Tronc + KPI Bonus (depending on experience)
About the Role
Barfection is proud to be recruiting on behalf of a vibrant and modern Asian-fusion buffet restaurant , in search of a talented and experienced Head Chef to lead the kitchen team and deliver bold, flavour-packed dishes on a large scale.
This is a full-time, senior leadership role ideal for someone with strong culinary expertise, team management experience, and a passion for Asian flavours. You'll be responsible for overseeing daily kitchen operations, leading a skilled brigade, ensuring buffet consistency and presentation, and maintaining the highest standards in food safety and quality.
You'll work closely with ownership and front-of-house leadership to drive creativity, efficiency, and smooth service. This is a hands-on position that demands organisation, attention to detail, and the ability to thrive in a busy, fast-paced kitchen.
Key Responsibilities
Lead the day-to-day operations of a high-volume buffet kitchen
Plan and deliver a wide selection of freshly prepared Asian-fusion dishes, including hot mains, sides, appetisers, salads, and desserts
Manage and motivate a team of chefs, kitchen porters, and prep staff
Oversee prep, service, and buffet replenishment to ensure speed and consistency
Create and maintain prep schedules, recipe specs, and portion control systems
Ensure compliance with all food safety, hygiene, and allergen procedures
Handle ordering, supplier relations, stock management, and cost control
Collaborate on seasonal menu development and themed buffet offerings
Maintain high standards of cleanliness, organisation, and kitchen efficiency
Mentor junior chefs and foster a positive, collaborative kitchen culture
Ideal Candidate
Proven experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef in a high-volume kitchen
Strong background in Asian, fusion, or pan-Asian cuisine
Confident managing buffet service and ensuring consistency across large quantities
Excellent leadership, communication, and people management skills
Strong understanding of stock control, GP targets, and kitchen cost management
Up-to-date food hygiene and safety certifications (Level 3 minimum preferred)
Organised, proactive, and cool under pressure
Creative, passionate, and excited to contribute to menu innovation
Flexible availability, including evenings, weekends, and peak trading periods
Work Schedule
Full-time (45-50 hours per week)
Mixture of day and evening shifts
Availability required on weekends and public holidays.
What We Offer
Competitive salary with performance-based bonuses
Full creative input on menu development and kitchen systems
A passionate and friendly team environment
Opportunities for progression within a growing hospitality group
Staff discounts and meals during shifts.
The chance to lead the kitchen in one of Middlesbrough's most exciting new Asian-fusion venues

Skills Required