At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the kitchen team, create delicious menus, and ensure top-notch food safety.
- Company: Join The Limping Fox, a vibrant venue with a passion for great food.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible hours, and a monthly bonus.
- Other info: Immediate start available; perfect for food lovers ready to shine!
- Why this job: Be the creative force behind our kitchen and inspire a passionate team.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef required.
Job Title: Head Chef. Reports To: General Manager / Owner. Location: The Limping fox.
Job Purpose
The Head Chef is responsible for the overall management of the kitchen, ensuring high-quality food preparation, excellent food safety standards, efficient kitchen operations, and the leadership of the kitchen team. The role includes menu planning, stock control, cost management, staff training, and ensuring compliance with all UK food hygiene, health and safety, and employment legislation.
Key Responsibilities
Kitchen Management
- Lead and manage the day-to-day operation of the kitchen.
- Ensure all food is prepared and presented to the highest standards.
- Develop seasonal menus and specials in line with business objectives.
- Maintain consistency in food quality, portion control and presentation.
- Monitor food production to minimise waste and maximise profitability.
Food Safety & Hygiene
- Ensure full compliance with the Food Safety Act 1990.
- Follow the Food Hygiene (England) Regulations 2013 (or equivalent legislation for Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland).
- Implement and maintain HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) procedures.
- Ensure all food is stored, prepared and served safely.
- Monitor and record temperature checks for fridges, freezers, deliveries and cooked food.
- Ensure cleaning schedules are completed and documented.
- Maintain excellent personal hygiene standards within the kitchen.
- Prepare for and maintain the standards required for Environmental Health Officer (EHO) inspections.
Health & Safety
- Comply with the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974.
- Conduct and review kitchen risk assessments.
- Ensure safe use of kitchen equipment.
- Report accidents and complete accident records where required.
- Ensure compliance with Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992.
- Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002.
- Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.
- Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER) 1998.
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) requirements where applicable.
Allergen Management
- Ensure compliance with Food Information Regulations 2014.
- Natasha’s Law (Food Information (Amendment) (England) Regulations 2019).
- Ensure allergen information is accurate and available to customers.
- Prevent cross‑contamination.
- Train staff on allergen awareness and procedures.
Staff Management
- Recruit, train and develop kitchen staff.
- Produce staff rotas.
- Conduct performance reviews.
- Maintain high standards of teamwork and professionalism.
- Ensure staff follow company policies and procedures.
- Manage disciplinary matters where necessary.
Stock Control
- Order food and kitchen supplies.
- Monitor stock levels.
- Carry out regular stock takes.
- Control food costs and wastage.
- Liaise with suppliers.
Financial Responsibilities
- Work within agreed food GP targets.
- Control labour costs.
- Monitor kitchen budgets.
- Reduce unnecessary waste.
Cleaning & Maintenance
- Ensure the kitchen is cleaned to a high standard.
- Maintain equipment and arrange repairs when required.
- Ensure all maintenance issues are reported promptly.
Essential Qualifications & Certifications
- Level 3 Food Safety and Hygiene for Supervisors (minimum).
- HACCP Training.
- Allergen Awareness Training.
- COSHH Awareness Training.
- Fire Safety Awareness.
- Manual Handling Training.
- Health & Safety Awareness.
- First Aid at Work or Emergency First Aid (desirable).
- Personal Licence Holder (desirable if management duties include alcohol sales).
Skills & Experience
- Previous experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef.
- Strong leadership and team management skills.
- Excellent organisational abilities.
- Knowledge of UK food legislation.
- Menu development experience.
- Budget and stock control experience.
- Ability to work under pressure.
- Strong communication skills.
- High attention to detail.
Personal Attributes
- Professional appearance.
- Reliable and punctual.
- Positive attitude.
- Calm under pressure.
- Passionate about food.
- Excellent problem‑solving skills.
- Committed to maintaining high standards.
Working Hours
- Flexible hours including evenings, weekends and bank holidays.
- Overtime may be required during busy periods.
Performance Expectations
- Maintain a minimum 5-star Food Hygiene Rating where achievable.
- Ensure all legal food safety documentation is completed.
- Keep food waste within agreed targets.
- Maintain excellent kitchen cleanliness.
- Deliver consistent, high‑quality food.
- Build and develop a motivated kitchen team.
- Meet agreed food gross profit targets.
Employment Details
- Experience: Required.
- Employment: Full-time.
- Schedule: Flexible.
- Salary: £32,000 – £38,000 yearly.
- Benefits: £200 a month at least.
- Starting time: Immediate start.
Head Chef in Thames Ditton employer: The Limping Fox
At The Limping Fox, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that fosters creativity and teamwork. As the Head Chef, you will enjoy competitive salary packages, flexible working hours, and opportunities for professional growth while leading a passionate kitchen team dedicated to culinary excellence. Our commitment to high standards and employee development ensures that you will thrive in a supportive environment where your skills and passion for food are truly valued.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef in Thames Ditton
✨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 The Limping Fox. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to The Limping Fox
Don't be shy about reaching out to The Limping Fox 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 Thames Ditton
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 The Limping Fox 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 The Limping Fox
✨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!
