At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a passionate kitchen team, creating exceptional dishes and a vibrant work environment.
- Company: Join YO!, an award-winning, globally expanding business with a focus on sustainability.
- Benefits: Enjoy fantastic hours, free food, professional qualifications, and wellness support.
- Other info: Win a free trip to Japan at our annual awards ceremony!
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a creative kitchen while growing your career.
- Qualifications: Natural leader with a passion for excellence and a proactive attitude.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 35000 £ per year.
We’re looking for a passionate, driven Head Chef to lead from the front and bring energy, creativity, and excellence to our kitchens at YO. 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.
Qualifications
- A natural leader and role model, with a strong appetite for success and a focus on delivering exceptional results.
- Ambitious and curious, with a genuine desire to keep learning and developing both personally and professionally.
- Pride taken in every detail, always striving to achieve the highest standards.
- A positive, enthusiastic mindset that lifts the team and creates a great working environment.
- Confidence to embrace challenges in a fast‑paced setting, with a proactive, can‑do attitude.
- Motivated to play a key part in our journey and contribute to the ongoing success of YO!
Responsibilities
- 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.
Benefits
- Fantastic working hours.
- Free YO! food – every time you work, you can power your shift with a selection from our menu.
- Grow with YO!: we will pay for you to achieve professional qualifications (up to Degree level) while 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 via our reward platform.
- 50% off your food every time you dine with us for you and three friends.
- Award‑winning sustainability initiatives – we’re committed to delivering progress against nine UN sustainability goals, including sourcing 100% of all salmon from certified sustainable sources and avoiding species classed as MCS “Fish to Avoid”.
- One‑third of our 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; winners receive a trip to Japan.
- Job security – join an award‑winning, globally expanding business and grow your career alongside us.
Head Chef in Exeter employer: Pankufood
At YO, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture where creativity and passion thrive. As a Head Chef, you'll enjoy fantastic benefits including free meals during shifts, professional development opportunities funded by the company, and a supportive environment that prioritises your wellbeing. Join us in our commitment to sustainability and be part of a globally expanding business that values your contributions and offers exciting career growth.
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 Pankufood. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Pankufood
Don't be shy about reaching out to Pankufood 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 Pankufood 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 Pankufood
✨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!
