Job Description
Head Chef - Exciting New Restaurant Launch
Location: Reading- Harehatch
Hours: 40 hours per week (daytime-focused shifts, no late nights)
Salary: Dependent on experience 35,000+
Are you a passionate and experienced chef looking to take the lead in a brand-new kitchen?
Our client is opening a brand-new restaurant as part of their thriving garden centre group, and they're seeking a talented Head Chef to launch and lead the kitchen. With a menu built around hearty carveries and all the much-loved classic favourites, this is a fantastic opportunity to put your stamp on an exciting new venture.
The Opportunity
As Head Chef, you'll oversee the kitchen from the ground up - shaping menus, establishing standards, and building a strong team culture. From perfecting Sunday roasts and carveries to delivering comforting classics, you'll take pride in creating consistently high-quality dishes that keep customers coming back.
Why Join?
Be part of something new - lead the opening of a brand-new restaurant.
Sociable hours - no split shifts and no late-night finishes.
Creative input - help design and deliver menus with a focus on carveries and timeless favourites.
Leadership role - build, train, and inspire your own kitchen team.
Stable, full-time position - 40 hours per week in a busy, customer-focused setting.
Friendly, supportive culture - join a well-established group with a great reputation.
Key Responsibilities
Plan, prepare, and deliver fresh, high-quality food with a focus on carveries and classic dishes.
Design and develop seasonal menus alongside the F&B Manager.
Lead, train, and support the kitchen team.
Ensure strict compliance with food safety and hygiene standards.
Manage costs, stock, and supplier relationships.
Work closely with front-of-house teams to deliver smooth service and customer satisfaction.
What We're Looking For
Proven experience as a Head Chef or a Sous Chef
Strong leadership skills and the ability to inspire a team.
A passion for fresh, hearty, and seasonal food - especially roasts and carveries.
Solid knowledge of kitchen management and food safety standards.
If you're excited by the chance to launch and lead a brand-new restaurant, specialise in carveries and classic favourites, and enjoy a better work-life balance, we'd love to hear from you.
If this sounds like you, please apply below, immediate start is available, so don't wait! For a confidential chat, get in touch with Felicity on (url removed) or (phone number removed).
Take the next step in your hospitality career - without sacrificing your evenings.
