Kings Hill, West Malling, Kent
Salary: Up to £35,000 per annum, dependent on experience and business development
Full-Time | Permanent | Sundays & Mondays Off
A fantastic opportunity for an ambitious chef looking for something a little different! We're working with a thriving independent Italian deli in Kent that is looking for a passionate, hands-on chef to help take its food offering to the next level.
Already proving hugely popular with local businesses for its handmade focaccia sandwiches and excellent coffee, the business has exciting plans to expand into fresh pasta, desserts and a wider Italian food offering.
This isn't a traditional Chef de Partie role. It's an opportunity to work closely with the owner, develop your skills, bring ideas to the table and play a genuine part in growing a successful independent business.
The Role You'll initially be responsible for helping manage the existing food offering, ensuring everything is freshly prepared, well organised and consistently delivered.
As the business develops, you'll work alongside the owner to introduce new dishes, improve the menu and build on an already loyal customer base.
A key part of the role will also involve preparing fresh pizza dough and producing pizzas for Friday and Saturday evening service.
You'll gain valuable experience in independent working, kitchen organisation, preparation management and menu development — making this an excellent opportunity for a CDP looking to take the next step in their career.
What We're Looking For A chef with solid kitchen fundamentals, ideally at Chef de Partie level.
Experience preparing fresh pizza dough and producing quality pizzas.
A genuine interest in Italian food, fresh pasta and handmade products.
Confidence working independently and managing daily preparation.
Good food safety knowledge and strong organisational skills.
Someone creative, motivated and excited about developing a business.
A positive attitude and willingness to get involved in all aspects of a small independent kitchen.
You don't need to have been a Head Chef or Sous Chef. We're much more interested in finding someone with the right foundations, enthusiasm and ambition.
Working Hours One of the biggest attractions of this position is the working pattern:
Sunday & Monday – Days off
Tuesday to Thursday – Finish by approximately 4pm
Friday & Saturday – Finish by approximately 10pm
The working pattern may evolve as the business grows.
What's On Offer? Salary progressing up to £35,000, depending on experience and the development of the business.
Two consecutive days off every week.
Three early finishes during the working week.
A genuine opportunity to help shape and develop a growing independent food business.
Creative input into new menus, fresh pasta, desserts and Italian specialities.
The chance to develop valuable kitchen management and commercial skills.
A close working relationship with an enthusiastic owner who has exciting plans for the future.
Interested? If you're a Chef de Partie who loves working with fresh ingredients, enjoys making pizza and would relish the opportunity to help develop something special, we'd love to hear from you.
Apply with your CV for a confidential conversation about the opportunity.
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Chef de Partie – Italian Deli & Kitchen Development - Great Hours in West Malling employer: Baxendale Mason
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