Head Chef - Senior Chef Academy in Edinburgh

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Overview

Signature Group is proud to launch its Senior Chef Academy, a structured, three-month development programme designed to support aspiring Senior Chefs in building the skills, confidence, and leadership required to thrive in our kitchens. This is a unique opportunity to learn our standards and systems, receive mentorship, and grow into a role that matches your strengths and ambitions.

Academy Structure

• Month 1: Foundations - Introduction to Signature Group systems, standards, and kitchen operations with mentor support and initial performance assessment.
• Month 2: Development - Focused culinary training, leadership development, and hands-on shift management with feedback from mentors and L&D.
• Month 3: Ownership - Lead services, manage teams, and demonstrate menu creation and GP awareness, culminating in a final skills assessment.

Senior Chef Duties

• Assisting with Menu Preparation - Work closely with the Head Chef to develop, plan, and implement new dishes, ensuring they align with the restaurant's concept and meet quality standards.
• Overseeing Kitchen Operations - Manage kitchen staff during shifts, ensuring that all tasks are completed efficiently, and the kitchen runs smoothly, particularly during busy service periods.
• Staff Training & Mentoring - Train and mentor junior kitchen staff, providing guidance on cooking techniques, safety standards, and operational procedures to enhance team performance.
• Maintaining Kitchen Hygiene & Safety - Ensure that the kitchen adheres to all health, safety, and hygiene regulations, conducting regular checks and maintaining a clean and organised environment.
• Inventory & Stock Control - Assist with inventory management, including ordering, monitoring stock levels, and ensuring the proper storage of ingredients to minimise waste and ensure consistent food quality.

Required Skills

• Advanced Culinary Skills - Strong knowledge of cooking techniques and culinary skills, with the ability to prepare and cook high-quality meals consistently.
• Leadership & Team Management - Ability to manage and motivate kitchen staff, ensuring efficient operations, maintaining morale, and fostering a positive team environment.
• Time Management & Multi-tasking - Excellent organisational skills to manage multiple kitchen tasks simultaneously, ensuring timely preparation and delivery of dishes during busy periods.
• Problem-Solving & Decision-Making - Ability to address kitchen challenges quickly and effectively, making decisions that ensure food quality, kitchen efficiency, and guest satisfaction.
• Attention to Detail - A keen eye for detail in food preparation, presentation, and portion control, ensuring dishes are consistently prepared to the highest standard.

Benefits

On top of pay - also included is our wider benefits such as:

• Staff discount ranging from 25% to 50% on F&B at all Signature Group Venues
• Employee Assistant Programme
• Extra annual leave days gathered through service
• Plus so much more!

At Signature, we're always on the lookout for passionate kitchen staff, including Kitchen Porters, Commis Chefs, Chef de Parties, Sous Chefs, and Head Chefs. Whether you're just starting out or looking to take the next step in your career, we offer excellent opportunities for development and progression. Our kitchens are built on teamwork, support, and professional growth, we'll help you reach your career goals every step of the way.

We look after our team and provide access to our 24/7 Employee Assistance Program. Signature Group believes in promoting a healthy work / life balance.

Applying for Signature

If this sounds like something you want to be a part of, apply today by sending in your CV.

Signature Group have 21 venues in Scotland, including Cold Town House, Paramount, Badger & Co, The Spiritualist, McLarens on the Corner, Copper Blossom, The Smokin' Fox and more.