Job Description

Job Title: Head Chef

Location: Mere Park Garden Centre, Stafford Road, Newport, TF10 9BY

Employment Type: Full-Time

Salary: Competitive, based on experience

About Us:

Mere Park Garden Centre is a leading destination in the region for quality plants, garden essentials, lifestyle products, and exceptional customer service. Our on-site restaurant is a key part of the customer experience, offering freshly prepared meals, homemade cakes, and locally sourced ingredients served in a welcoming, relaxed environment. We are now seeking an experienced, passionate, and innovative

Head Chef

to lead our kitchen team and take our food offering to the next level.

The Role:

As Head Chef, you will be responsible for the overall management of our busy kitchen, ensuring high standards of food quality, presentation, and consistency. You will lead by example, setting a strong professional tone and driving the team to deliver exceptional service throughout the day. This is a hands-on role for someone with a strong culinary background, a flair for menu development, and the ability to manage all aspects of kitchen operations.

Key Responsibilities:

Oversee the preparation and presentation of high-quality dishes for breakfast, lunch, and afternoon tea service. Design and implement seasonal menus that align with customer expectations and reflect fresh, local ingredients. Manage stock levels, supplier relationships, ordering, and kitchen budgets to maximise efficiency and minimise waste. Lead, motivate, and develop the kitchen team, ensuring clear communication, staff training, and a positive work culture. Maintain the highest standards of hygiene, health and safety, and food safety, in line with current legislation and company policies. Monitor kitchen performance and service delivery, making continuous improvements where necessary. Collaborate with front-of-house management to ensure smooth service and customer satisfaction.

What We're Looking For:

Proven experience as a Head Chef or Sous Chef in a high-volume, quality-focused kitchen. Excellent leadership and people management skills with a collaborative, hands-on approach. Strong organisational and planning abilities, with attention to detail and a focus on delivering excellence. Creativity and confidence in developing menus and introducing fresh ideas. Sound knowledge of food safety regulations and kitchen best practices. A passion for freshly prepared food and a genuine interest in providing an outstanding customer experience.

Working Hours:

Daytime hours only - no evening work Weekends required on a rota basis

What We Offer:

A supportive, friendly working environment within a well-established and respected business Opportunities for creativity and menu development Staff discounts across the garden centre Competitive salary with performance reviews Excellent work-life balance
Apply now to start a new adventure!!!!!

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Work Location: In person

Reference ID: Mere Park HC