Are you a highly experienced and professional Head Chef ready to lead a high-performing kitchen in a unique cultural setting?
We are seeking an exceptional Head Chef to oversee all culinary operations across The Brasserie, Minerva Bar, and Café on the Park at Chichester Festival Theatre (CFT). This role works closely alongside the Catering General Manager at Caper & Berry CFT and the Executive Chef of Caper & Berry, a company that has successfully catered at CFT for over 10 years, providing security, stability, and continuity.
This is an opportunity for a mature, confident leader to take ownership of a dynamic kitchen team while delivering exceptional food and service.
WHY THIS ROLE IS DIFFERENT Restaurant service is pre-show only, typically finishing around 7:30pm
Most kitchen team members finish between 8:00pm and 9:00pm
Catering outlets open Monday to Saturday dependent on theatre show diary
Occasional Sundays, but not regular
Late finishes are limited to key events such as Press Nights ( approx. 2-3 per month )
This role is ideal for chefs seeking high standards, leadership responsibility, and a structured working pattern .
ABOUT THE ROLE As Head Chef, you will take full responsibility for kitchen operations, ensuring consistently high-quality food across all outlets and events.
Working in close partnership with the Catering General Manager, you will lead a professional team, maintaining standards, managing costs, and creating a positive kitchen culture.
A key focus is mature, experienced team management - you will set the tone, mentor your chefs, and ensure every service meets exacting standards.
We are looking for someone who is ready to bring proven leadership, operational expertise, and culinary vision to this established and respected operation.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Leadership & Kitchen Operations Lead and manage the entire kitchen team across all outlets
Demonstrate mature and professional leadership, mentoring and motivating your team
Plan rotas and staffing levels efficiently
Hold regular team meetings and maintain strong communication
Manage staffing costs and accurate recording of hours
Food Quality & Menu Development Develop and refine menus across all outlets
Ensure all dishes are tested, costed, and delivered consistently
Collaborate on seasonal and event menus
Maintain full allergen compliance
Food Safety & Compliance Ensure full HACCP and EHO compliance
Maintain exceptional kitchen organisation and cleanliness
Champion food safety systems and ensure team adherence
Financial & Stock Management Control food costs and kitchen budgets
Oversee ordering, supplier relationships, and produce quality
Complete monthly stocktakes and reporting accurately
Training, Recruitment & Development Train and mentor the kitchen team, developing skills and standards
Recruit and retain talented chefs
Drive consistent, high-quality output across all services
Events & Service Delivery Oversee food delivery across theatre outlets and special events
Ensure all services meet exacting standards
Work closely with senior management to maintain seamless operations
ABOUT YOU Proven experience as a Head Chef in a quality-led environment
Mature, professional, and confident leader, capable of managing a diverse team
Strong financial awareness (food cost, labour control)
Passion for seasonal, high-quality food and menu innovation
Excellent knowledge of food safety and allergen regulations
Highly organised, calm under pressure, and consistent in standards
Committed to developing and mentoring a high-performing team
WHAT WE OFFER Salary from £42,000 per annum (dependent on experience)
Share of gratuities (£3,000£4,000 per year)
Pre-show service pattern with usual finish times 89pm
Occasional late finishes for key events (approx. 2-3 per month)
Standard opening Monday to Saturday
Occasional Sunday work, but not regular
Creative influence across multiple outlets
Healthcare cashback plan and free meal on shift
A secure role with a company trusted by CFT for over 10 years
APPLY NOW If you are an experienced Head Chef looking for a stable, high-profile role where your leadership and culinary skills will be valued and challenged, wed love to hear from you.
Apply today and lead the kitchen at Chichester Festival Theatre with Caper & Berry .
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