Head Chef Kite at The Red Hart 45 hours per week £45,000 inc. TRONC
Kite at The Red Hart is an independent neighbourhood gastropub in Hitchin serving up modern British cooking with seasonal flair. Were passionate about great food and our kitchen is led by creativity and collaboration now were looking for a Head Chef to build the next chapter of our culinary story.
We pride ourselves on creating a welcoming, inclusive vibe for our customers and team members alike. This kind of environment, where we support our staff and work actively to create a healthy work-life balance, is the reason why a large number of our team stay with us for 5+ years.
The Role Youll oversee every aspect of our kitchen operation, helping shape menus that highlight the best of each season. Kite is a gastropub where the dishes are familiar but always have something to elevate them above normal expectations. Youll work with fresh, local produce as much as possible, and lead a small, dedicated team to deliver the kind of consistent high quality menus were known forespecially on our legendary Sunday roasts. We also host regular private events, and a very limited number of weddings each year. You will be in charge of ensuring these clients are wowed by the food.
Responsibilities Lead daily kitchen operations with precision and passion.
Design and execute seasonal menus (including gluten-free, dairy-free and vegan options) both for our daily pub operation as well as private hires, events and weddings
Maintain high standards of food safety, hygiene, cost control and waste reduction.
Inspire, mentor and manage your team with empathy and clarity.
Collaborate with the front of house team to deliver seamless service.
Actively support our ethos of sustainability and creativity
Commitment to creating a fun, inclusive workplace.
About You Proven Head Chef or Sous Chef experience in a busy gastropub or high-quality restaurant setting.
A strong sense of leadership and a genuine interest in team wellbeing and development.
Passionate about seasonal British food, sustainability and reducing food waste.
Organised, calm under pressure, and detail-oriented.
Excellent communication and a personable, supportive approach.
Flexible to work evenings and weekends, within a 45-hour roster.
What We Offer A salary of £45,000 per year including TRONC.
45 hours per week, with shifts that support a healthy work-life balance. 2 days off in a row guaranteed.
28 days holiday (including bank holidays).
Pension contributions and staff meals provided.
Discounted food & drink across Kite at The Red Hart and The Groundworks café.
A welcoming, creative and socially-minded team culture.
To Apply Please send your CV and a brief introductionwhy youre excited about this role, your favourite seasonal dish and what sustainable cooking means to youto our hiring team. Drop in to meet us in person if youd like to say hello when you're nearby!
We look forward to hearing from you. Interviews will include a conversation and short cook-trial shift once arrangedaiming to get you cooking with us as soon as possible.
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