Head Chef - Hospitality - Full Time. in Leeds

MACK is a property management company that has the vision to be the leading force in providing a diverse range of safe, inclusive, and sustainable accommodation for all. To support our accommodation services, we also operate nationwide, delivering high quality catering and laundry services. Our catering provision is built around delivering fresh, nutritious, and high-quality food services across a diverse range of sites. We pride ourselves on operational excellence, strong client partnerships, and a commitment to compliance and sustainability.

As the Head Chef, you will lead our culinary team in delivering exceptional dining experiences while ensuring the highest standards of food safety and quality. Reporting to the Restaurant Manager, with a Level 3 in Professional Cookery and strong leadership skills, you will foster a collaborative environment, oversee food production, and implement HACCP protocols. Join us to elevate our culinary offerings and drive the success of our restaurant through innovative cuisine and effective team leadership.

• Oversee the preparation and cooking of large volumes of food while maintaining consistency, portion control, and quality standards.
• Lead, motivate, and manage a team of chefs, kitchen assistants, and porters.
• Provide on-the-job training to ensure staff follow procedures and maintain high standards of food safety and hygiene.
• Monitor stock levels, forecast usage, and manage ordering to reduce waste and control costs.
• Ensure full compliance with food safety legislation, HACCP protocols, and company policies.
• Conduct regular kitchen audits and risk assessments.
• Ensure all allergen information is up to date and that special diets (e.g. gluten-free, halal, vegan) are catered for safely.
• Liaise with catering managers, clients, and service staff to coordinate service delivery.
• Ensure kitchen equipment is maintained and serviced.
• Report faults and oversee cleanliness and organisation of the kitchen.

Qualifications:

• NVQ Level 3 in Professional Cookery (or equivalent)
• Level 3 Food Safety & Hygiene Certification (essential) refresher training will be given.
• Allergen Awareness Training
• Relevant Health & Safety training (e.g. COSHH, manual handling)
• Culinary or hospitality management qualification (desirable)
• Sound knowledge of stock control, portioning, and waste reduction
• Proven experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef in a bulk or volume catering environment (e.g. hospitals, schools, prisons, large-scale events, care homes, or contract catering)
• Strong background in high-volume food production and multi-site or central kitchen operations
• Demonstrable experience in menu planning, cost control, stock management, and team leadership
• Experience managing and training kitchen brigades
• Track record of maintaining food safety standards and achieving high inspection results

This role is working 40 hours per week, over 5 days including weekends. The position requires standing for long periods, bending, lifting, and maintaining a fast-paced environment while ensuring that food safety and cleanliness are upheld at all times.

Due to legal working hour restrictions, we are unable to consider applicants who are not permitted to work these hours under UK immigration rules.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: £15.50 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Discounted or free food

Free parking

Do you currently have the legal right to work the full contracted hours for this role without restriction (e.g. not limited to 20 hours per week)?