At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a vibrant kitchen team, creating fresh and delicious Japanese dishes.
- Company: Join YO!, a fun and innovative dining experience with over 30 restaurants in the UK.
- Benefits: Enjoy free food, professional qualifications, and wellness support.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and a chance to win a trip to Japan!
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team that celebrates great food and culture.
- Qualifications: Experience in kitchen leadership and a passion for quality food.
The predicted salary is between 32823 - 40117 £ per year.
At Yo!, we serve up fresh food, fast-paced energy, and a dining experience like no other. Think iconic conveyor belts, bold Japanese flavours, and a team that brings the vibe every single day. With 30+ restaurants across the UK since 1997, we’re a brand that’s built on innovation, quality, and great people. Whether it’s a quick lunch or a catch-up with friends, we create memorable experiences for every guest - and it all starts with our teams. If you’re passionate, energetic, and ready to thrive in a busy environment, you’ll fit right in. Join us and be part of something fast, fun, and full of flavour.
We’re looking for an inspiring, hands-on Head Chef who loves great food, thrives in a high energy environment, and knows how to bring out the best in a kitchen team. If you’re passionate about quality, consistency, and leading from the front - this could be your next move.
About You – A Leader with Food at the Heart
- You’re calm under pressure, confident in your craft, and passionate about creating great food while building a strong, positive kitchen culture.
- Passionate about food, especially sushi and Japanese inspired dishes.
- An experienced kitchen leader who leads by example.
- Detail driven, with high standards for quality and consistency.
- Calm, organised, and confident during busy services.
- Hands on and happy to be on the pass and on the floor.
- A people focused leader who enjoys developing and motivating others.
- Keen to grow, improve, and keep the kitchen moving forward.
Key Responsibilities
- As Head Chef, you’ll take full ownership of the kitchen - leading the team, delivering great food every time, and creating an environment where people feel supported and proud of what they do.
- Leading, motivating, and developing the kitchen team.
- Ensuring every dish is fresh, consistent, and beautifully presented.
- Managing service with calm leadership and clear communication.
- Working closely with the General Manager to deliver a great overall experience.
- Training and developing your team to build strong future talent.
- Maintaining high standards across food quality, safety, and cleanliness.
- Managing stock, deliveries, and kitchen organisation.
- Creating a positive, inclusive, high energy kitchen culture.
- Driving consistency, structure, and continuous improvement.
We're proud to offer:
- Fantastic working hours.
- Free YO! food - What's your favourite YO! dish? Every time you work you can power your shift with a selection of your choice from our fantastic menu.
- Grow with YO! - we will pay for you to achieve professional qualifications (up to Degree level) whilst you work.
- Brilliant support services designed to enhance your physical, mental and financial wellbeing including private medical health plan and 24/7 Employee Assistance Line.
- Discounted gym membership, cinema tickets, dining out and retail offers are all available by accessing our reward platform.
- 50% off your food every time you dine with us for you and 3 friends.
- Award-winning sustainability initiatives - We're committed to delivering progress against 9 UN sustainability goals, just some of the actions we've already taken include: 100% of all Salmon sourced from certified sustainable sources, Zero use of Species classed as MCS 'Fish to Avoid', 1/3rd of our Restaurant menu is plant-led and we are proud members of the Global Tuna Alliance.
- Free trip to Japan! - our Annual Awards ceremony celebrates your success - with the winners being awarded a trip to Japan.
- Job security - Joining an award-winning, globally expanding business gives you the opportunity to grow your career alongside us.
About us:
- Over 1500 retail kiosks globally (YO!, Panku, Mai Taiko Snowfox & Bento).
- Our Taiko manufacturing and distribution centre.
- 63 YO! restaurants.
- 3700 locations globally from Hawaii to Aberdeen.
Our Values
- Think like an owner.
- Be passionate.
- Speak openly.
- Move fast, together.
Ready to Roll? Come roll with us and play a key role by bringing people together to celebrate better food for everyone the Japanese way...
Head Chef in Stratford-upon-Avon employer: Panku Food
At YO!, we pride ourselves on being an innovative and fast-growing employer that values our people at the heart of our operations. As a Kiosk Manager, you'll enjoy a supportive work culture that encourages personal and professional growth, with opportunities for career advancement through our apprenticeship programme. With fantastic benefits including flexible working arrangements, health and wellbeing support, and a commitment to sustainability, joining our team means being part of a success story that celebrates exceptional food and service.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef in Stratford-upon-Avon
✨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 Panku Food. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Panku Food
Don't be shy about reaching out to Panku Food 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 Stratford-upon-Avon
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 Panku Food 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 Panku Food
✨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!
