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- Tasks: Lead the kitchen team and create an authentic dining experience at KIBOU.
- Company: Join a growing independent Japanese restaurant with a focus on quality and culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, employee discounts, free meals, and wellness support.
- Other info: Be part of a top-rated workplace with opportunities for personal growth.
- Why this job: Shape your kitchen culture and develop exciting menus in a vibrant environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in kitchen management and team development preferred.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 55000 £ per year.
At KIBOU, we’re looking for an exceptional Head Chef to be part of the opening of a new restaurant in Central Birmingham this summer. Leading up to the opening, you will have your input into the design and layout of the kitchen and the opportunity to build your kitchen team culture from day one. KIBOU is an independent Japanese restaurant and bar with restaurants in Battersea, Cheltenham, Bristol, Solihull, Oxford and Cambridge.
Our kitchens deliver a diverse menu showcasing a variety of Japanese cuisine, all handmade or hand-rolled fresh in the kitchen daily. Our stringent sourcing policy ensures that we only ever use the freshest, best quality and most authentic ingredients, so our guests can enjoy a premium dining experience with each visit. Each KIBOU has a dedicated sushi kitchen offering an extensive selection of handmade-to-order sushi and sashimi.
Your role will be to manage the day-to-day running of the kitchen operations and the team, with motivation and commitment to deliver outstanding service. To lead the kitchen team from the front to create a fun, authentic and original dining experience that will support our core values.
At KIBOU, we’re looking for incredible individuals to come on a journey with us, helping to grow our small family of restaurants while delivering exceptional food and service to all of our guests. Being part of a small growing business, you’ll have the opportunity to work on menu development, bringing your own ideas to the table and helping us grow our offering.
Experience, Qualifications and Skills we need:
- Experience in Japanese cuisine preferred but not essential
- Ability to recruit, train and develop effective and passionate teams
- Proven track record of delivering sales growth through consistent food quality and service
- Effective labour cost management
- Track record of delivering budgeted food margins
- Flare for creative and authentic menu development
- Experience in running large teams of chefs
- Ensure legal compliance and health & safety are managed as required
KIBOU are a considerate and respectful employer, and we place team wellbeing at the heart of our operation. We love our people and are thrilled to be growing our team!
Why work with us:
- A business with our people at its core, valuing individuals as much as the team
- A restaurant-led organisation that champions operational autonomy and the freedom to thrive, with opportunities to shape how the business evolves and grows.
- Personalised training programmes and development opportunities tailored to you
- 100% equal and transparent service charge policy
- Japanese culture & cuisine 101. Get to know Japanese food!
- Regular socials, including the annual KIBOU awards show and summer party
- Employee discounts when you dine in any of our restaurants
- Free meals cooked by your chefs, or generously discounted menu items on shift
- Professional confidential support with the wellness programme, Licensed Trade Charity
- Financial well-being with Hastee
- Enhanced Pension provision through Salary Exchange
- Recognised as being one of the Top 30 Best Places to Work in Hospitality 2025, by The Caterer
Head Chef KIBOU Restaurants Birmingham Up to £55k per annum Pay is inclusive of Tronc employer: KIBOU Restaurants Ltd
Contact Detail:
KIBOU Restaurants Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef KIBOU Restaurants Birmingham Up to £55k per annum Pay is inclusive of Tronc
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know KIBOU! Research our restaurants, menu, and values. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show us that you're genuinely interested in being part of our team.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with other chefs and industry professionals on social media or at local events. You never know who might have a lead on the perfect opportunity for you at KIBOU.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your skills! If you can, bring a dish or two to share during your interview. This gives us a taste of your creativity and passion for Japanese cuisine, making you stand out from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows us that you're keen to join the KIBOU family right from the start.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Chef KIBOU Restaurants Birmingham Up to £55k per annum Pay is inclusive of Tronc
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Japanese Cuisine: When you're writing your application, let your love for Japanese food shine through! Share any experiences you've had with Japanese cuisine, whether it's cooking, dining, or even travelling. We want to see that you’re excited about bringing authentic flavours to our guests.
Highlight Your Leadership Skills: As a Head Chef, you'll be leading a team, so make sure to showcase your leadership experience in your application. Talk about how you've motivated teams in the past and any successful projects you've led. We’re all about building a strong kitchen culture from day one!
Be Creative with Your Menu Ideas: We love fresh ideas, so don’t hold back! In your application, feel free to include any creative menu concepts or dishes you’d love to introduce at KIBOU. This is your chance to show us how you can contribute to our diverse menu and enhance our dining experience.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and get to know you better. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our KIBOU family!
How to prepare for a job interview at KIBOU Restaurants Ltd
✨Know Your Japanese Cuisine
Brush up on your knowledge of Japanese cuisine before the interview. Familiarise yourself with key dishes, ingredients, and cooking techniques that are essential to KIBOU's menu. This will not only show your passion for the role but also demonstrate your commitment to delivering authentic dining experiences.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Head Chef, you'll be leading a team, so be prepared to discuss your leadership style. Share specific examples of how you've successfully recruited, trained, and motivated kitchen teams in the past. Highlight any creative initiatives you've implemented to foster a positive kitchen culture.
✨Discuss Menu Development Ideas
KIBOU values innovation, so come armed with ideas for menu development. Think about how you can incorporate seasonal ingredients or unique twists on traditional dishes. Presenting your vision for the menu will show that you're ready to contribute from day one.
✨Understand Operational Autonomy
Familiarise yourself with KIBOU's approach to operational autonomy. Be ready to discuss how you would manage kitchen operations effectively while maintaining high standards of food quality and service. This will demonstrate that you align with their values and are prepared to thrive in a dynamic environment.