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.