At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a talented kitchen team and create exceptional seafood dishes.
- Company: Rockfish, a top-rated seafood restaurant chain in the UK.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous tips, 28 days holiday, and wellness support.
- Other info: Work in a beautiful coastal town with a focus on community and connection.
- Why this job: Join a sustainable seafood business and grow your culinary career.
- Qualifications: At least one year of Head Chef experience in a restaurant.
The predicted salary is between 39000 - 39000 £ per year.
Rockfish, led by Mitch Tonks, founder and CEO of the unique seafood business that catches, processes and serves local seafood at 10 locations in the Southwest. We’re a Top 50 Best Company to Work For in the UK, servicing MSC-certified sustainable seafood landed fresh daily from Brixham Fish Market. If you're a talented chef with a passion for leadership, sustainability, and career progression, this is an incredible opportunity to grow with us. The salary for this role is £39k per annum basic salary, up to £44k when including tronc, gratuities and overtime.
The role: As Head Chef you will oversee a team of chefs ensuring food is prepared to a high standard, building a strong relationship with our front of house teams to deliver exceptional levels of service to all our guests. You will manage stock effectively and respectfully to minimise wastage and control labour in line with budgets to ensure financial KPIs are met. You will coach and inspire your team to fulfil their full potential ensuring you and your team embrace our core values, ‘Care, Community and Connection’. You will be required to have at least one years’ experience at Head Chef level within a restaurant environment.
As a Head Chef you will:
- Cook exceptional dishes using the freshest seafood.
- Lead the service and mentor a talented kitchen team.
- Ensure every plate meets our Rockfish standards.
- Manage resources to minimise waste and control costs.
- Collaborate with the front‑of‑house team to deliver unforgettable dining experiences.
What We Offer:
- Competitive salary + paid overtime (with a focus on work‑life balance).
- Generous share of gratuities and tips, distributed via Tip Jar.
- Generous Refer‑a‑friend bonus.
- Company pension scheme to support your future.
- 28 days holiday, plus your birthday off.
- Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and Boxing Day off every year.
- Winter working patterns with full pay.
- 4 week paid sabbatical after 10 years service.
- 24/7 access to wellbeing services, including counselling, financial and legal advice.
- 50% off dining at all Rockfish restaurants.
- Access to Rockfish paddleboards to use on your break time!
- Competitions and incentives.
- Training in wine, health & safety, and food safety.
- Clear paths for career progression—we’re always looking for our next Area Head Chef!
Why Rockfish? This is your chance to work in one of the UK’s most beautiful coastal towns, with a team that values sustainability, quality, and growth. At Rockfish, we celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and inspired. Ready to Make Waves? Bring your passion and culinary expertise to Rockfish. Apply now!
Head Chef in Exeter employer: Harri.com
As a General Manager at our vibrant South-West attraction, you will thrive in a dynamic work environment that prioritises excellence and teamwork. We offer competitive benefits, a supportive culture that fosters employee growth, and the unique opportunity to lead a passionate team dedicated to delivering unforgettable visitor experiences. Join us to make a meaningful impact while enjoying a well-organised and high-standard workplace.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef in Exeter
✨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 Harri.com. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Harri.com
Don't be shy about reaching out to Harri.com 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 Exeter
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 Harri.com 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 Harri.com
✨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!
