Head Chef - Darlington

Step into the spotlight as Head Chef at Bannatyne and lead our culinary team to new heights! In this dynamic role, you'll craft innovative menus, drive exceptional dining experiences, and inspire a passionate kitchen crew. If you're ready to bring your creativity to life, elevate food quality, and make a lasting impact in a vibrant health and wellness setting, Bannatyne is the place where your culinary vision can truly shine. Join us and transform every meal into a memorable experience!

Benefits:

• B-Fed - complimentary lunch or breakfast.
• Flexible schedule.
• 28 days annual leave increases with tenure.
• Free gym membership.
• Complimentary gym membership for another person (after 2 years service).
• Discounted Spa Treatments - 30% Discounted Spa Goods - 20% ELEMIS Products.
• Discounted Meals and Beverages - 50% cafe/bar.
• Career & Personal Development training.
• Mental Health, Well-Being and EAP Services.
• Length of Service Awards.
• Staff Awards and Bonuses.
• Discounted entertainment and shopping.

Responsibilities:

• Design and develop diverse, seasonal, and appealing menus that cater to the tastes and dietary needs of our members and guests.
• Ensure all dishes meet Bannatyne's quality standards and brand values.
• Oversee daily kitchen operations, including food preparation, cooking, and presentation.
• Ensure that all kitchen activities are carried out efficiently and in compliance with health and safety regulations.
• Lead, train, and mentor the kitchen team, including sous chefs, line cooks, and kitchen assistants.
• Foster a collaborative and positive working environment, set performance standards, and conduct regular evaluations.
• Maintain high standards of food quality, taste, and presentation.
• Conduct regular inspections to ensure all dishes meet the required specifications and address any issues promptly.
• Manage kitchen inventory, including ordering, receiving, and storing supplies.
• Monitor food costs and wastage, and implement cost-control measures to optimise profitability without compromising quality.
• Ensure compliance with all food safety and hygiene regulations.
• Maintain a clean and organised kitchen environment, and conduct regular health and safety training for the team.
• Interact with guests as needed to gather feedback, address special dietary requirements, and enhance their dining experience.
• Use feedback to continually improve menu offerings and service standards.
• Stay updated with the latest culinary trends and techniques.
• Introduce innovative dishes and concepts to keep the menu fresh and exciting for our members and guests.
• Work closely with the Food and Beverage Manager and other departments to coordinate special events, promotions, and seasonal offerings.
• Contribute to the overall success of the food and beverage operations.

Qualifications:

• A professional culinary qualification (e.g., City & Guilds, NVQ, or equivalent).
• Food Safety Level 2 or 3 certification.
• Extensive experience as a chef, with a proven track record in a leadership role within a high-volume, quality-focused kitchen.
• Experience in menu development, food cost management, and team training.
• Familiarity with modern culinary trends and techniques.
• Strong understanding of food safety regulations and health and safety standards.
• Flexibility to work various shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Knowledge of health and safety regulations, including COSHH, and a commitment to maintaining a safe working environment.
• Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to inspire and guide a kitchen team.
• High level of creativity and innovation in menu development and food presentation.
• Exceptional attention to detail in food quality, taste, and presentation.
• Excellent organisational and multitasking abilities to manage kitchen operations and staff effectively.
• Strong verbal communication skills to interact with team members, guests, and management.
• Ability to quickly address and resolve kitchen issues, including equipment failures and staff challenges.

Join Bannatyne as a Head Chef and be part of a dynamic team that values creativity and excellence! As Head Chef at Bannatyne, you'll have the opportunity to lead a talented culinary team and create memorable dining experiences for our members and guests. You'll work in a dynamic environment that values creativity, quality, and excellence. We offer a supportive work culture, competitive compensation, and opportunities for professional growth. If you're passionate about food, leadership, and innovation, Bannatyne is the perfect place to take your culinary career to new heights.