Rockfish is opening in Sidmouth!
An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Head Chef to lead the opening kitchen team at our brand-new Rockfish restaurant in the stunning coastal town of Sidmouth. Training begins immediately at one of our existing Rockfish locations, so your own transport is essential.
Rockfish, founded by Mitch Tonks (CEO), is a unique seafood business that catches, processes, and serves local seafood across 11 award-winning restaurants in Devon and Dorset—with more openings to come. Mitch is one of the UK’s most respected voices in seafood and hospitality.
We’re proud to be voted one of the Top 50 Best Companies to work for in the UK, and Top 10 in Hospitality. At Rockfish, we care about our people, our guests, and the environment—serving only MSC-certified sustainable seafood, landed fresh daily from Brixham Fish Market and delivered straight to our restaurants.
As Head Chef, you will:
* Demonstrate proven experience leading a high-performing kitchen team
* Run a disciplined, clean, and efficient kitchen that delivers consistent quality
* Lead with energy, precision, and integrity
* Inspire, mentor, and develop your team with a passion for hospitality
* Collaborate closely with the front-of-house team to ensure smooth service
* Champion sustainability and traceability, proudly serving responsibly caught seafood
* Share our love for the coast, honest cooking, and great seafood
Why Rockfish?
Working at Rockfish feels like being part of an extended family. With support from our Area Chefs and leadership team, you’ll never feel isolated in your role.
We believe in care, community, and connection. Our kitchens are calm, professional, and inclusive—no shouting, no chaos, just teamwork and love for food. With training, input into seasonal menus, and career development opportunities, you’ll always feel supported and valued.
As Rockfish continues to grow, your career can grow with us.
What’s in it for you?
* Competitive salary
* Paid travel during training
* Paid Overtime
* 40 hours per week in winter / 48 hours in summer
* Weekly tips via TipJar (approx. £5K per year)
* Performance-based summer bonus
* Summer incentives – cash rewards, trips abroad, UK staycations
* Christmas Eve, Christmas Day & Boxing Day off
* 28 days holiday (pro-rata) + your birthday off
* 50% off dining at all Rockfish locations and The Seahorse
* Free use of Rockfish paddleboards on breaks
* Referral bonuses & fun competitions with prizes
* 24/7 health & wellbeing support (counselling, financial, legal)
* 5-year service awards
* 4-week paid sabbatical after 10 years
* Enhanced paternity and maternity pay (exclusive to this role)
* Be part of something awesome—where it doesn’t feel like work!
Be Part of Something Bigger
We’re growing, and Sidmouth is next! We’re recruiting now so you can complete full training and induction ahead of opening. Some travel to other Rockfish locations will be required.
Ready to Lead?
If you’re passionate about seafood, love leading teams, and want to be part of something genuinely exciting, apply now and join the Rockfish journey.