About Us
At The Cross Keys, we are passionate about serving exceptional food that celebrates the seasons and showcases the best from local and artisan producers. Our menus are thoughtfully designed to offer a wide variety of freshly prepared dishes, from vibrant small plates to hearty mains. Whether for lunch or dinner, we ensure every guest enjoys a memorable experience, with inclusive options for all dietary needs.
The Role: Head Chef
We are looking for an ambitious and creative Head Chef to lead our kitchen and inspire our team. This is an exciting opportunity to shape the culinary direction of The Cross Keys, maintain our reputation for excellence, and bring innovative, seasonal dishes to the table.
Key Responsibilities
* Design and deliver menus that celebrate local, seasonal produce.
* Lead daily kitchen operations with a focus on quality, consistency, and presentation.
* Train, mentor, and motivate the kitchen team to achieve their full potential.
* Manage stock control, ordering, and supplier relationships efficiently.
* Uphold the highest standards of food hygiene, health, and safety.
* Develop creative dishes that cater to all dietary requirements.
* Ensure smooth service during busy periods and special events.
* Handle scheduling, budgeting, and other key administrative tasks.
About You
* Experienced as a Head Chef or in a senior kitchen leadership role.
* Skilled in a wide range of cooking techniques with a flair for seasonal cuisine.
* A natural leader with strong communication and team management skills.
* Calm and efficient under pressure, with an exceptional eye for detail.
* Flexible to work varied shifts, including weekends and holidays.
* A culinary qualification is desirable but not essential.
What We Offer
* Competitive salary based on age and experience.
* Opportunities for professional growth and career progression.
* A collaborative, supportive, and inclusive workplace culture.
* The chance to work with outstanding local and artisan ingredients.
* Work-life balance, with Christmas Day and Boxing Day off.
How to Apply
If you are a dedicated and creative chef with a passion for seasonal, locally sourced cuisine, we would love to hear from you. Please send your CV along with a short cover letter explaining why you would be a great fit for The Cross Keys team.
Join us at The Cross Keys and be part of a kitchen that values creativity, quality, and community.
The Cross Keys is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to building an inclusive environment for all team members.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: £37,000.00-£40,000.00 per year
Benefits:
* Company pension
Work Location: In person