At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a friendly kitchen team in a busy, daytime-only café.
- Company: Well-established Garden Centre Café in Huntingdon.
- Benefits: 40-hour week, competitive salary, free parking, and staff discounts.
- Other info: Join a supportive environment focused on quality food and team development.
- Why this job: Enjoy work-life balance with no late shifts and genuine leadership opportunities.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Sous Chef or Kitchen Supervisor with strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 26865 - 32835 £ per year.
Looking for a kitchen leadership role that doesn't take over your evenings? This could be exactly what you've been waiting for.
A well-established Garden Centre Café in Huntingdon is seeking a hands-on Kitchen Manager to lead a friendly kitchen team in a busy, daytime-only operation. Perfect for an experienced Sous Chef or Senior Chef ready to step into management without sacrificing work-life balance.
What's on offer:
- 40-hour working week
- Daytime-only operation
- Shifts scheduled between 8 am and 16:30
- Straight shifts only - no late finishes or split shifts
- Alternate weekends are typically required
- Free staff parking on site
- Uniform provided
- Company pension scheme
- 30% staff discount
- Up to £35k salary
- Sick pay included
The Role:
You’ll take responsibility for the day-to-day running of the kitchen, working closely with a small team. This is a very hands-on role where you’ll lead service, maintain standards, manage stock, and ensure smooth kitchen operations throughout the day.
We’re looking for a great kitchen leader who can confidently lead the team through busy periods, communicate clearly, and set expectations so everyone knows what is required. You’ll also be a mentor and team builder, with the ability to train and support existing team members and recruit and onboard new team members when needed.
The right person will see challenges as opportunities to improve rather than problems to avoid. You’ll be proactive, positive and not afraid to take action when something needs addressing. A strong understanding of food costs is also essential, including ordering, wastage control and prep planning. You’ll be confident identifying areas where costs can be improved and implementing practical actions when needed.
The café is part of a successful garden centre group known for welcoming hospitality, freshly prepared food, homemade baked goods, and a loyal customer base who return regularly for breakfast, lunch, and coffee breaks.
We'd love to hear from you if you have:
- Experience as a Sous Chef, Kitchen Supervisor, Team Leader or above
- Strong leadership, organisational and kitchen management skills
- Experience leading a team through busy services
- Excellent communication skills and the ability to set clear expectations
- A natural mentoring approach with the confidence to train and develop team members
- Experience recruiting and onboarding new kitchen staff
- Knowledge of ordering, stock control, food safety and food cost management
- An understanding of wastage, prep planning and portion control
- A proactive approach to solving challenges and improving kitchen performance
- A positive, team-focused attitude and passion for quality food
- The confidence to implement changes and take action when required
If you're ready for a fresh opportunity with better hours, genuine leadership responsibility and a fantastic work environment, apply now to learn more about this Kitchen Manager position in Huntingdon.
Head Chef Kitchen Manager Daytime Only employer: All The Top Bananas
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StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef Kitchen Manager Daytime Only
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like All The Top Bananas. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to All The Top Bananas
Don't be shy about reaching out to All The Top Bananas directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Head Chef Kitchen Manager Daytime Only
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about All The Top Bananas and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at All The Top Bananas
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!
