Head Chef – Lead the Kitchen of a New Mediterranean Bistro in Borrowash, Derby
Location: Derby
Position: Full-Time, Permanent
Salary: Competitive + Benefits + Profit-Driven Incentives
Start Date: Autumn 2025 (with training prior to opening)
A Fresh Take on Mediterranean Dining – Right in the Heart of Derby
We're searching for an experienced, creative, and ambitious Head Chef to help us launch an exciting new bistro concept that's focused on Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, fresh ingredients, and bold ideas. This is your opportunity to help shape a dynamic food brand from day one — with the freedom to innovate and a supportive, growth-focused team behind you.
We're not just opening a restaurant. We're building a movement – something vibrant, flavourful, and full of personality. If you're passionate about real food, quality produce, and bringing people together through exciting, seasonal dishes, this is the kitchen for you.
Why This Role is Different
* Mediterranean-Led Menu – Celebrate sunshine flavours and bold, honest cooking. Think coastal Spain, Portugal & Southern France influence — using both imported Mediterranean produce and the best local British suppliers.
* Creative Freedom – You'll lead on menu development, specials, and seasonal changes. We want a chef who's not afraid to experiment and elevate the classics.
* A Quality Kitchen Setup – Our kitchen is fully equipped and thoughtfully designed for fresh cooking. While not entirely new, we've invested in high-quality equipment, including lightly used pieces that support speed and efficiency.
* Growth From the Ground Up – Join during the pre-opening phase and shape everything from kitchen layout to team culture.
* Hands-On Training & Team Building – Play a key role in recruiting and training your brigade with full support from ownership.
* Brand & Content Involvement – Collaborate on social media, behind-the-scenes content, and creative campaigns that tell the story of your dishes and our food philosophy.
* Long-Term Career Path – With expansion in our sights, this is a role with genuine room to grow beyond the first location.
What We're Looking For
* Proven experience as a Head Chef or a strong Sous Chef ready to take the next step.
* A strong background in Mediterranean or modern European cuisine preferred.
* Skilled in working with seasonal produce, managing fresh prep kitchens, and balancing quality with speed.
* A creative thinker who enjoys experimenting, refining ideas, and creating memorable dishes.
* Strong knowledge of kitchen management, including food costs, margins, stock control, compliance, and rotas.
* Able to build and lead a team, creating a positive kitchen culture from the outset.
* Comfortable working with the front-of-house team and ownership to drive standards, consistency, and customer experience.
* An interest in food presentation, photography, and social media is a big bonus.
* Level 3 Food Hygiene Certification or equivalent (or willing to obtain).
* A strong understanding of allergens, health and safety standards, and food safety best practices.
What Success Looks Like
* Well-received, consistent dishes and a strong food reputation
* Effective and efficient kitchen operations with solid cost control
* A motivated and well-trained kitchen team
* Seasonal and special menus that excite regulars and attract new customers
* Engagement with social media, visual storytelling, and community-building
About Us
We're a young and ambitious team with plans to redefine casual dining in Derby. Our vision is a warm, contemporary bistro rooted in Mediterranean flavour, hospitality, and flair. Our approach to food is simple: fresh, seasonal, and exciting. We're committed to quality, creativity, and giving our people the chance to grow and lead.
This is a rare chance to be part of something authentic and ambitious, from pre-opening to full launch – and beyond.
Ready to Apply?
Send us your CV, a short cover letter, or even a quick intro video – we'd love to hear about your experience, ideas, and why you'd be a great fit. Bonus points for any links to your food photos, social media, or portfolio.
This is more than just a chef job. This is your kitchen, your menu, your moment. Let's build something brilliant.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: £31,000.00-£40,000.00 per year
Benefits:
* Bereavement leave
* Employee discount
* Enhanced maternity leave
* Enhanced paternity leave
* Free parking
Work Location: In person