Executive Chef – Afghani & Pakistani Cuisine
Location: Wilmslow Road, Manchester
Job Type: Full-Time
Salary: Competitive + Incentives + Potential Profit Share
About Us
We are developing an exciting new sister brand to Café Begum, bringing a modern yet authentic twist to Afghani and Pakistani dining. With a focus on fresh karahis, grills, and traditional flavours, we aim to create a standout culinary experience that blends heritage with innovation.
Role Overview
We are seeking a highly skilled Executive Chef with expertise in Afghani and Pakistani cuisine to lead the pre-opening and launch of our new restaurant brand on Wilmslow Road, Manchester. The ideal candidate will have a proven background in menu development, kitchen leadership, and a passion for authentic flavours and fresh cooking.
This is a rare opportunity to be part of something new from the ground up, with strong growth potential and the chance to share in the brand's success.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead all aspects of the pre-opening kitchen setup, from equipment planning to recruitment and training of kitchen staff.
* Develop and design a signature menu with a strong emphasis on Afghani and Pakistani dishes, including fresh karahis, grills, and innovative regional recipes.
* Maintain the highest standards of food quality, presentation, and consistency.
* Source ingredients, build supplier relationships, and implement cost-effective purchasing systems.
* Establish kitchen operations, SOPs, and HACCP/food safety standards.
* Provide leadership, training, and motivation to kitchen staff.
* Collaborate with management on brand direction, seasonal specials, and new product launches.
* Drive creativity while preserving the authenticity of the cuisine.
Requirements
* Proven experience as an Executive Chef or Head Chef in Afghani/Pakistani restaurants.
* Deep knowledge of regional cuisines, particularly fresh karahis, grills, kebabs, pulao, and tandoor cooking.
* Strong background in menu development and culinary innovation.
* Experience with restaurant openings or launching new concepts is highly desirable.
* Excellent leadership, organisation, and communication skills.
* Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
* Fluent in English; knowledge of regional languages (Urdu, Pashto, Dari, Punjabi) is a plus.
Benefits
* Attractive salary package (based on experience).
* Performance-based incentives.
* Potential profit share for the right candidate.
* Opportunity to play a key role in shaping a new brand with long-term growth prospects.
How to Apply
If you are passionate about authentic Afghani and Pakistani cuisine and want to be part of building an exciting new brand on Wilmslow Road, Manchester, we'd love to hear from you.
Please submit your CV and a brief cover letter, OR
Call us directly on to apply.
Job Type: Full-time
Work Location: In person