No Christmas Day, Boxing Day, Easter Sunday or New Year’s Day shifts.

Sociable hours.

Fresh, quality food.

Newly renovated kitchen.

We’re looking for an experienced and motivated Lead Chef to oversee our busy, modern restaurant at Hamstreet Garden Centre.

If you’re passionate about fresh food and leading a positive kitchen culture, without the late nights or split shifts.

This is an excellent opportunity to take the next step in your career.

As Lead Chef, you will oversee the daily running of our kitchen, ensuring consistently high standards of food preparation, presentation and hygiene.

You will lead by example, cooking a wide range of freshly made dishes from our extensive menu and supporting the team during peak service.

Key responsibilities include:
• Leading and motivating the kitchen team.

• Cooking and preparing fresh food to order.

• Ensuring excellent food hygiene and safety practices.

• Managing stock, ordering and kitchen organisation.

• Supporting menu development and specials planning.

• Maintaining smooth service in a busy environment.

We’re looking for someone who:
• Has proven experience as a Lead Chef, Head Chef or strong Senior Chef de Partie looking to step up.

• Holds (or is working towards) NVQ Level 2/3 in catering or equivalent.

• Understands and upholds food safety and HACCP practices.

• Can manage a kitchen team with confidence and clarity.

• Works efficiently under pressure.

• Has a passion for fresh, quality food and great customer experience.

A Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate is beneficial, but we offer full in-house training if required

What We Offer
• Sociable working hours with no Christmas Day, Boxing Day, Easter Sunday or New Year’s Day shifts.

• 20% staff discount on most purchases.

• 28 days holiday (full time, including Bank Holidays).

• Auto-enrolment pension scheme.

• Supportive, friendly environment.

• Opportunity to influence menu development.

Working Pattern

Our restaurant operates within standard retail hours, including weekends and Bank Holidays.

Occasional evening work may be required for events.

How to Apply

If you’d like to lead a well-supported kitchen with a great work–life balance, apply now with your CV and a short covering letter.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: From £28,000.00 per year

Benefits:
• Company events.

• Company pension.

• Discounted or free food.

• Employee discount.

• Free parking.

• On-site parking.

• Store discount.

Work Location: In person