At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the sushi kitchen, manage operations, and create an authentic dining experience.
- Company: KIBOU, a vibrant independent Japanese restaurant chain.
- Benefits: Up to £52k salary, employee discounts, free meals, and wellness support.
- Why this job: Join a growing team and shape the future of Japanese cuisine in Birmingham.
- Qualifications: Extensive sushi skills and experience in Japanese cuisine required.
- Other info: Recognised as one of the Top 30 Best Places to Work in Hospitality 2025.
The predicted salary is between 52000 - 52000 £ per year.
At KIBOU, we’re looking for an exceptional Head Sushi Chef to be part of the opening of a new restaurant in Central Birmingham this summer. Leading up to the opening, you will have the unique opportunity to build your sushi kitchen team from day one. Your role will be to manage the day-to-day running of the sushi kitchen operations, with motivation and commitment to deliver outstanding service. To lead the kitchen team from the front alongside the Head Chef to create a fun, authentic and original dining experience that will support our core values.
KIBOU is an independent Japanese restaurant and bar with restaurants in Battersea, Cheltenham, Bristol, Solihull, Oxford and Cambridge. The environments we create are opulent, vibrant and fun, and our primary focus is on growing a team of people who take pride in delivering what we believe is a truly standout experience for all our guests! Our kitchens deliver a diverse menu showcasing a variety of Japanese cuisine and sushi, all handmade or hand-rolled fresh in the kitchen daily, and 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 sushi and sashimi handmade to order.
At KIBOU, we’re looking for incredible individuals to come on a journey with us, helping to grow our small family of restaurants whilst 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. We love our people and are thrilled to be growing our team! KIBOU are a considerate and respectful employer, and we place team wellbeing at the heart of our operation.
Experience, Qualifications and Skills we need:
- Considerable sushi skills and Japanese cuisine experience
- 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
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 Sushi Chef KIBOU Restaurants Birmingham Up to £52k, 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 Sushi Chef KIBOU Restaurants Birmingham Up to £52k, Pay is inclusive of Tronc
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the KIBOU vibe! Before your interview, dive into their culture and values. This way, you can show how your passion for sushi and Japanese cuisine aligns perfectly with what they’re all about.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former KIBOU staff on social media. They can give you insider tips and maybe even put in a good word for you. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team.
✨Tip Number 3
Bring your creativity to the table! Think about unique sushi ideas or menu concepts you could pitch during your interview. KIBOU loves innovation, so showing off your flair for authentic menu development could really set you apart.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the KIBOU family and ready to contribute to their exciting journey.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Sushi Chef KIBOU Restaurants Birmingham Up to £52k, Pay is inclusive of Tronc
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Sushi Skills: When you're writing your application, make sure to highlight your sushi skills and experience with Japanese cuisine. We want to see your passion for creating authentic dishes that will wow our guests!
Team Spirit is Key: Don’t forget to mention your experience in building and leading teams. At KIBOU, we value collaboration, so share how you've motivated and developed your kitchen crew in the past.
Get Creative with Your Ideas: We love fresh ideas! Use your application to showcase any creative menu concepts or unique dishes you’ve developed. This is your chance to impress us with your culinary flair!
Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and get to know you better. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at KIBOU Restaurants Ltd
✨Know Your Sushi Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your sushi knowledge before the interview. Be ready to discuss different types of sushi, preparation techniques, and the importance of fresh ingredients. This will show your passion for Japanese cuisine and your expertise in the field.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Head Sushi Chef, you'll be leading a team. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed kitchen teams in the past. Highlight your experience in training and developing staff, as well as how you've fostered a positive work environment.
✨Bring Your Creative Ideas
KIBOU values innovation, so come prepared with ideas for menu development. Think about unique sushi rolls or dishes that could enhance their offerings. This will demonstrate your creativity and commitment to contributing to the restaurant's success.
✨Understand Their Values
Familiarise yourself with KIBOU's core values and mission. Be ready to discuss how your personal values align with theirs, especially regarding team wellbeing and delivering exceptional service. This will show that you're not just looking for a job, but a place where you can truly belong.