Job Description

Job Title:

Head Chef (Full-Time)

Location:

Asian-Fusion Buffet Restaurant - Thetford

Employment Type:

Full-time

Salary: 40,000

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About the Role

Barfection is excited to be recruiting on behalf of a vibrant and contemporary

Asian-fusion buffet-style restaurant

in the heart of Thetford. We are seeking a dynamic and experienced

Head Chef

to lead the kitchen team, take full ownership of back-of-house operations, and deliver a bold, flavour-driven menu celebrating the best of Asian cuisine with a modern twist.


This is a high-energy, hands-on role ideal for a chef with a passion for Asian flavours and extensive experience in managing a large-scale buffet operation. You will be responsible for designing and executing a rotating menu that balances authenticity with innovation, ensuring consistent quality across all stations.


With a focus on freshness, efficiency, and creativity, this is your chance to lead a talented team and help define the culinary identity of a growing, food-led venue with big ambitions.


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Key Responsibilities

Lead and oversee all aspects of the kitchen, including menu development, staff management, service preparation, and quality control Develop and maintain a vibrant buffet offering featuring dishes inspired by Chinese, Japanese, Thai, Korean, and Southeast Asian cuisines Maintain consistency, presentation, and portion control across all hot and cold stations Manage inventory, ordering, suppliers, and cost control to achieve GP targets Ensure full compliance with food hygiene and safety regulations (HACCP, allergens, EHO) Train, schedule, and supervise a multi-skilled kitchen team, encouraging a positive, productive work environment Implement kitchen systems to improve workflow, speed of service, and customer experience Collaborate with front-of-house management to align kitchen service with customer needs and feedback Maintain high standards of cleanliness and organisation at all times
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Ideal Candidate

Proven experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef in a fast-paced, high-volume environment Deep understanding of Asian cuisine, with a strong grasp of flavours, techniques, and ingredients Experience with buffet service models and batch cooking while maintaining quality Excellent leadership and communication skills with the ability to motivate and manage a diverse team Strong financial acumen and experience in stock control, budgeting, and costings Food hygiene certification (Level 3 or higher) and a full understanding of kitchen compliance Organised, calm under pressure, and results-oriented with a passion for food excellence Comfortable working evenings and weekends as part of the core rota
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Work Schedule

Full-time (45-50 hours per week) Flexible shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holiday periods 5 days per week, with 2 days off
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What We Offer

A leadership role in a well-established, popular venue with growth potential Creative input into menu development and kitchen strategy Supportive ownership and a collaborative working environment Competitive salary with performance-related bonuses Staff meals and employee discounts * Opportunities for progression and professional development