At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the kitchen, create a delivery-friendly Indian menu, and manage a small team.
- Company: Join an exciting new Indian food delivery brand in Solihull, focused on authentic Punjabi cuisine.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, free meals, team events, and opportunities for career growth.
- Why this job: Shape a start-up's food culture and menu while working in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Minimum 2 years as a chef in Indian cuisine; leadership skills and food hygiene knowledge required.
- Other info: This is a unique chance to influence a new brand from the ground up.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
We are an exciting new Indian food delivery brand launching in Solihull and we are on the hunt for a passionate, experienced Head Chef to join our team. Specialising in North Indian Punjabi cuisine, we are focused on delivering authentic, homemade-inspired meals in a modern dark kitchen delivery-only setting. This is a unique opportunity to shape the kitchen, menu, and food culture of a start-up from the ground up.
Key Responsibilities
- Design and develop a streamlined, delivery-optimised Indian menu
- Oversee all aspects of kitchen operations: food prep, cooking, presentation
- Maintain consistency, high standards, and excellent flavour across all dishes
- Manage portion sizes, food costing, and inventory levels
- Build supplier relationships and negotiate quality ingredient sourcing
- Implement and uphold food safety (HACCP), hygiene and allergen regulations
- Monitor equipment maintenance and kitchen cleanliness
- Lead, train and motivate a small kitchen team
- Collaborate closely with business founders for menu development and growth
Requirements
- Right to work in the UK
- Minimum 2 years of experience as a chef specialising in Indian cuisine
- Previous experience in a takeaway or delivery kitchen environment is desirable
- Strong knowledge of traditional North Indian cooking techniques and spices
- Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate (or willingness to obtain)
- Proven leadership skills and ability to manage kitchen staff
- Strong time management, communication and organisation skills
What We Offer
- Be part of an ambitious, growing food brand
- Competitive salary and potential for performance-based incentives
- Free staff meals and regular team days
- Creative freedom and input into menu development
- Long-term growth and career progression as the business scales
Head Chef - Indian Dark Kitchen in Solihull employer: Riley Consultancy
Contact Detail:
Riley Consultancy Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef - Indian Dark Kitchen in Solihull
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific North Indian Punjabi cuisine that the role focuses on. Research traditional dishes, cooking techniques, and spices to demonstrate your passion and expertise during any discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network within the local hospitality scene in Solihull. Attend food events or join culinary groups to connect with other chefs and industry professionals who might provide insights or referrals for this exciting opportunity.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your previous experience in takeaway or delivery kitchens. Highlight any successful menu designs or operational improvements you've implemented, as this will show your capability to thrive in a dark kitchen environment.
✨Tip Number 4
Be ready to showcase your leadership skills. Think of examples where you've successfully trained or motivated a kitchen team, as this will be crucial for managing staff in a start-up setting.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Chef - Indian Dark Kitchen in Solihull
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Head Chef position. Familiarise yourself with North Indian Punjabi cuisine and the specifics of working in a dark kitchen environment.
Tailor Your CV: Highlight your relevant experience in Indian cuisine and any previous roles in takeaway or delivery kitchens. Emphasise your leadership skills and any achievements that demonstrate your ability to manage a kitchen effectively.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for Indian cooking and your vision for the menu. Mention how your experience aligns with the company's goals and how you can contribute to building their food culture.
Showcase Your Knowledge: In your application, include specific examples of traditional North Indian cooking techniques you excel in. Discuss your approach to maintaining food safety and hygiene standards, as well as your experience in managing kitchen operations.
How to prepare for a job interview at Riley Consultancy
✨Showcase Your Culinary Passion
Make sure to express your love for Indian cuisine during the interview. Share your experiences with traditional North Indian cooking techniques and how they inspire your dishes. This will demonstrate your genuine interest in the role and the brand.
✨Prepare a Sample Menu
Consider creating a sample menu that reflects your vision for the kitchen. Highlight dishes that showcase your skills and understanding of delivery-optimised meals. This proactive approach can impress the interviewers and show your commitment to the role.
✨Discuss Leadership Experience
Be ready to talk about your previous leadership roles in the kitchen. Share specific examples of how you've trained and motivated staff, managed kitchen operations, and maintained high standards. This will help demonstrate your capability to lead a small kitchen team effectively.
✨Understand Food Safety Regulations
Familiarise yourself with food safety regulations, including HACCP and allergen management. Be prepared to discuss how you have implemented these practices in past roles. This knowledge is crucial for maintaining the high standards expected in a professional kitchen.