Head Chef – The Parlour Café and Restaurant
Location: Sanders Garden Centre, Brent Knoll
Contract: Full-time | Daytime Hours Only
Salary: Competitive, based on experience
Start Date: Immediate / Negotiable
Are you a passionate, creative, and experienced chef ready to take the next step in your culinary career? The Parlour Café and Restaurant, nestled within the beautiful surroundings of Sanders Garden Centre, is looking for a dynamic Head Chef to lead our kitchen team.
This is a rare opportunity to enjoy a fulfilling culinary role without evening shifts, and with guaranteed time off over Christmas, Boxing Day, New Year's Day and Easter – ideal for chefs seeking a better work-life balance without compromising on quality, creativity or leadership.
What We're Looking For:
We're seeking a confident, hands-on Head Chef who brings energy, pride, and professionalism to everything they do. You'll lead by example, maintaining high standards in both food and kitchen operations while inspiring your team to deliver an exceptional dining experience.
Key Responsibilities:
* Lead and manage the day-to-day operations of the kitchen
* Develop and deliver seasonal menus showcasing fresh, quality ingredients
* Ensure consistency, presentation, and excellence across all dishes
* Manage stock levels, ordering, and supplier relationships
* Maintain high standards of cleanliness and food safety (HACCP compliance)
* Recruit, train and nurture a skilled and motivated kitchen team
* Work closely with front-of-house and management to meet business goals
* Monitor kitchen performance including cost controls, wastage, and staff efficiency
About You:
* Proven experience in a similar Head Chef or Senior Chef role
* Passionate about food, seasonality and delivering exceptional customer experiences
* Strong leadership and communication skills
* Organised, reliable, and able to thrive under pressure
* A team player who brings positivity and drive to the workplace
* Relevant food hygiene and safety qualifications
What We Offer:
* Straight daytime shifts – no evening work
* Set time off: Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year's Day and Easter
* A supportive and welcoming working environment
* The chance to make your mark in a much-loved local destination
* Opportunities for input on menus and food innovation
* Discount across the garden centre and restaurant
If you're ready to bring flair and focus to our friendly café and restaurant, we'd love to hear from you. Join us at The Parlour and help shape a fresh, exciting chapter in our kitchen's story.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Work Location: In person