Job Description

Who We Are

At The Wild Oven, we create wood-fired cooking and unforgettable grazing experiences. From our Land Rover mobile kitchens to our hand-crafted grazing boards, everything we do celebrates local produce, bringing people together, and the magic of cooking over fire.

We're a small, passionate crew who believe in creativity, craft, and getting stuck in. Every event is a chance to create something special. We're looking for someone who thrives on bringing organisation, energy, and care to the heart of our kitchen.

The Role

Job Title:

Kitchen & Operations Lead (Pathway to Operations Manager)

Hours:

35-37 hours per week (with possible weekend work)

Pay:

12.48 - 14.29/hour (depending on experience and hours)

Start Date:

Winter 2025/2026

Location:

The Wild Oven Base, Billesley Manor Farm, Stratford-upon-Avon

We're after a Kitchen & Operations Lead who can keep our kitchen running smoothly, support the team, and help us deliver unforgettable events. This isn't just a job, it's a chance to grow with us and shape how The Wild Oven operates behind the scenes.

Approximate split:

60% kitchen & team coordination / 40% office & operational admin

This role is designed with growth in mind. For the right person, there's a clear pathway to Operations Manager as you take on more responsibility and help shape how The Wild Oven runs behind the scenes.

What You'll Be Doing

Kitchen & Operations Magic

Oversee daily kitchen activities and prep schedules Lead and support the kitchen team during prep and at events Maintain food safety standards and documentation (SFBB, training, etc.) Work with the GM or Assistant Manager to identify and solve operational challenges. Coordinate kitchen rotas and ensure smooth communication between the kitchen and event teams.

Stock & Ordering - Keeping Our Clients Fed

Monitor stock and ensure ingredients and supplies are always ready Manage supplier relationships and ordering Log stock movement and help minimise waste

Team Coordination - Making Life Easy

Provide clear prep plans and priorities for the kitchen team Delegate tasks effectively and track progress Communicate event needs and timings clearly across the team

Admin & Client Support - The Behind-the-Scenes Stuff

Respond to client emails and calls in a friendly, professional way Keep CRM and internal systems up to date (HubSpot, stock logs, rotas) Support with seasonal prep, logistics, and packing for events

What We're Looking For

Experience managing or coordinating a kitchen team of 5+ Organised, practical, and confident, juggling multiple priorities Knowledge of food safety and hygiene best practices A strong communicator: clear, calm, and approachable Comfortable with a mix of hands-on kitchen work and office admin Full driving licence

Nice to Have

Familiar with Google Suite or Microsoft Office (especially Excel) CRM experience (HubSpot or similar) Food Hygiene certification

Why You'll Love Working With Us

Work outdoors and around wood-fired ovens and local produce Join a small, creative team that values independence and initiative See an enquiry through to a perfectly delivered event Opportunity to shape and grow with a developing business Flexible hours where possible A genuine opportunity to grow into a leadership role as our operations expand Great food (on us!) and free on-site parking Relaxed, supportive environment

How to Apply

Send us your CV and a short note about why you'd be perfect for The Wild Oven to hello@thewildoven.co.uk

Got any questions or want to learn what it's like to work with The Wild Oven? Whatsapp Kiera 07761800526

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: 24,336.00-27,846.00 per year

Benefits:

Casual dress Free parking On-site parking
Work Location: In person