At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic kitchen team and create amazing seasonal menus.
- Company: Join Grind, a sustainable coffee company with a vibrant culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy discounts, social events, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Be part of a mission-driven team focused on using coffee for good.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a fast-paced restaurant while promoting sustainability.
- Qualifications: Extensive kitchen management experience and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 31500 - 38500 £ per year.
Grind is a coffee company that was born in London, and now lives in Manchester!
Since opening Shoreditch Grind in 2011, we've expanded across the city with cafés, coffee shops, trucks, and a state-of-the-art coffee roastery.
Now, we’ve opened our first location outside of London, in the centre of Manchester.
Coffee is at the forefront of what we do and who we are.
We are coffee specialists and have always aspired to deliver the best quality, service, and consistency of product at all our Grind locations.
Each of our cafés has an incredible team serving speciality coffee, mixing cocktails, and cooking amazing food—all to the beat of a great playlist.
Now, we’re looking to build another all-star team for our very first café-restaurant in the heart of Manchester, in St Michael’s Square.
Every team at every location is involved in our mission to use coffee as a force for good.
Whether it’s through sourcing avocado peel straws and recycled material containers on site, creating the UK’s first home-compostable coffee pods, or using 100% plastic-free packaging, we want to be the world’s most sustainable coffee company.
We set up our own charity, the Better Coffee Foundation®, to undo the damage caused by the global coffee industry by recovering ocean-bound plastic with every coffee pod, iced coffee can, and cup of coffee we sell.
A bit about the role.
This is a great opportunity for an experienced Head Chef looking to join a fast-paced restaurant group.
Our Grind locations offer all-day dining and focus on using fresh seasonal produce to develop a dynamic menu.
As a Head Chef, you will be responsible for the operation of the kitchen and the Back of House team.
Your role will be to ensure that the service, quality and consistency of food is upheld to Grind standards at all times.
We expect that you will be able to proactively recruit, train and develop your team.
Furthermore, you must be able to create and maintain a safe, clean working environment for all chefs and kitchen staff.
To be eligible for this position you must have experience of kitchen management and possess strong knowledge around food GPs, H&S, wage costs, stock control and training.
Role responsibilities.
- Oversee food expediting to ensure top-quality food and service are delivered to customers.
- Maintain timely food production and uphold high standards across all services and sections.
- Lead, manage and develop our already incredible kitchen team.
- Uphold a safe and clean working environment according to Health and Safety regulations.
- Ensure adequate staffing with qualified chefs for each kitchen section.
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date staff files within the HR system.
- Proactively recruit kitchen team members following established company procedures.
- Prepare weekly rotas for the Back of House team based on business levels and budgets.
- Collaborate and effectively communicate with the Front of House Management team.
- Report complaints, incidents, accidents, and other irregularities to the Operations team and Manager on duty.
- Adapt and adjust working patterns as needed to meet operational demands.
You’ll have.
- Extensive experience within similar reputable establishments.
- Considerable management experience within a busy kitchen environment.
- Good communication skills to enable effective dialogue with colleagues and customers.
- Strong time-management and organisational skills.
- A positive attitude and leadership approach to motivate and encourage a team of aspiring chefs.
- Ability to maintain professionalism at all times, in both conduct and appearance.
- Strong initiative and ability to quickly problem-solve under pressure.
Diversity and Inclusion.
Grind is an equal opportunity employer and we value diversity at our company.
We do not discriminate on the basis of race, colour, national origin, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, age, veteran status, or disability status.
If there are any adjustments you need to help you bring your best self to an interview with us please let us know.
Benefits and Perks.
- NEST Pension: We offer a pension scheme to help you plan for your future.
- Stream: Take control of your finances with on-demand access to your earned wages, financial coaching, and more.
- Employee Loan: Access an interest‑free loan of up to £1,000 to help with unexpected expenses.
- Referral Bonus: Earn a bonus for bringing great talent to our team (£250 for employees, £450 for managers).
- Discounts online: Up to 40% off our retail line online.
- Spectrum
Life: Access our confidential Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for personal and professional support.
- Crew Card: Enjoy 50% off all food and drinks, plus two free coffees a day at Grind locations.
- Friends & Family Discount: Share the love with discounts for your friends and family on our website and at our sites.
- Meals on Duty: Enjoy one staff meal on shifts over 4 hours, and two staff meals on shifts over 10 hours.
- Social Events: Join us for team social events to connect and have fun.
- Enhanced Maternity and Paternity: Enjoy enhanced maternity and paternity benefits once eligible.
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Head Chef in Manchester employer: Grind Coffee Roasters Ltd.
Grind is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture in the heart of Manchester where coffee and sustainability are at the core of our mission. As a Head Chef, you will thrive in a dynamic environment that values creativity and teamwork, with ample opportunities for professional growth and development. Enjoy a range of benefits including generous discounts, financial support options, and a commitment to employee well-being, all while being part of a company dedicated to making a positive impact in the coffee industry.
Contact Details:
Grind Coffee Roasters Ltd. Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef in Manchester
✨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 Grind Coffee Roasters Ltd.. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Grind Coffee Roasters Ltd.
Don't be shy about reaching out to Grind Coffee Roasters Ltd. 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 in Manchester
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 Grind Coffee Roasters Ltd. 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 Grind Coffee Roasters Ltd.
✨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!