Job Description

Head Chef - The Greenhouse Kitchen & Restaurant

Location:

Blackdown Garden Centre

Hours:

Full-time, daytime only

Holidays:

Closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year's Day, and Easter Sunday

We are excited to offer an excellent opportunity for an experienced and passionate

Head Chef

to lead the kitchen team at

The Greenhouse Kitchen & Restaurant

, located within the scenic surroundings of Blackdown Garden Centre.

This role is perfect for a chef seeking a better work-life balance while maintaining a high standard of culinary creativity and leadership. With daytime-only hours and regular closures on key holidays, this is a rare opportunity to enjoy a fulfilling culinary career without compromising personal time.

About the Role

As Head Chef, you will take full responsibility for the smooth day-to-day running of the kitchen. You will lead by example, maintaining high culinary standards, managing a small, dedicated team, and ensuring excellent food quality and service across breakfast, lunch, and afternoon menus.

Key Responsibilities:

Oversee all kitchen operations, including food preparation, cooking, presentation, and service Lead, inspire, and develop a small brigade of chefs and kitchen assistants Design and update seasonal menus in line with customer preferences and business objectives Maintain strict compliance with food hygiene, safety, and allergen regulations Manage ordering, stock control, and supplier relationships to ensure cost-effective procurement Control food costs and ensure minimal wastage Train and support team members to ensure consistency and quality Collaborate with the front-of-house team to ensure smooth service and customer satisfaction Take responsibility for maintaining cleanliness, organisation, and health & safety standards in all kitchen areas

What We're Looking For:

Proven experience in a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef role, ideally in a busy cafe or daytime restaurant setting A passion for fresh, seasonal food with a flair for creative, approachable dishes Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate and mentor a team Solid understanding of kitchen management, including food cost control and ordering Excellent time management and organisational skills Knowledge of all food safety, hygiene, and allergen legislation (Level 3 Food Safety preferred)

What We Offer:

Daytime-only working hours - no split shifts or late nights A positive, supportive working environment focused on team wellbeing Opportunities for professional growth and career development within a growing group Input into menu design and creative direction of the kitchen Guaranteed days off on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year's Day, and Easter Sunday Staff discount and on-site parking
Join us and bring your culinary vision to life in a welcoming environment where your skills and leadership will be truly valued.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Work Location: In person