Job Description

The Opportunity

Steam Wine Bar is an ambitious, independent venue in the heart of the City, and we're on an exciting growth curve. We're now looking for a

Head Chef / Kitchen Manager

to take the reins of our fresh food kitchen and help shape the next chapter of Steam.

This is a rare opportunity to join a

new and up-and-coming business

at a pivotal moment. You'll have real influence over menus, systems, team culture, and standards, with the freedom to put your own culinary stamp on a venue that values quality, creativity, and consistency.

If you thrive in a hands-on leadership role, enjoy building teams, and take pride in delivering food that complements a premium dining experience, this role has your name on it.

The Role

As Head Chef, you'll be responsible for the smooth running of all kitchen operations, from day-to-day service to events and private hires. You'll lead from the front, setting standards, inspiring your team, and ensuring every dish leaving the kitchen reflects Steam's ethos.

Key Responsibilities

Lead and oversee all kitchen operations, maintaining exceptional standards of food quality, consistency, and presentation Develop and evolve menus that balance creativity with commercial awareness, seasonal produce, and guest expectations Ensure full compliance with food safety, hygiene, and HACCP regulations at all times Manage stock control, ordering, and supplier relationships to minimise waste and maintain strong GP margins Recruit, train, schedule, and develop kitchen staff, building a motivated and reliable team culture Oversee preparation and execution for events, private dining, and larger bookings, working closely with the front-of-house team Collaborate with senior management on operational improvements, guest feedback, and future growth plans

About You

Proven experience as a Head Chef in a quality-led, high-volume or fine dining environment Expertise in handling and preparing fresh ingredients Strong kitchen management skills, including rotas, stock control, costing, and compliance Creativity, trend-awareness and passionate about sustainability and seasonality when creating stand-out dishes Strong leadership and communication skills Confident leader who can motivate, train, and retain a strong kitchen team Food Safety Level 3 or above Experience with EHO Compliance

Why Join Steam?

Be part of an

exciting, growing wine bar brand

with big plans Real autonomy and creative input, not just box-ticking A supportive ownership team that values professionalism and personality A role where your decisions genuinely shape the business
If you're ready to step into a role where your leadership and culinary vision truly matter, we'd love to hear from you.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From 40,000.00 per year

Experience:

Fresh Food: 5 years (required) Head Chef: 5 years (required)
Work authorisation:

United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person