Head Chef

Head Chef - Ocean Exmouth

Join Ocean – Shape Our Culinary Future

About the Role

Are you a dynamic culinary leader ready to make your mark? Ocean is seeking an inspiring Head Chef who is passionate about food, people, and progress. This is a unique opportunity for you to put your stamp on our kitchen, introduce innovative ideas, and build a team you can be proud of.

Your Purpose

As the pivotal figure in our kitchen, you will oversee all operations, from menu planning and inventory management to staff development and food quality assurance. Working closely with the Group Head Chef and F&B Business Manager, you'll lead the charge in delivering a consistent, high-quality dining experience that brings customers back time and time again.

What We Expect from Our Head Chef

Operational Excellence

We expect you to set the benchmark for food preparation and service, consistently delivering exceptional quality and delighting our customers. You should proactively manage inventory and ingredient ordering, ensuring efficiency and minimal waste. Creativity is valued—your input on developing fresh menu concepts, pricing strategies, and portion control will help keep our offerings exciting and competitive. Your kitchen will be a model of cleanliness, safety, and organisation, maintained through diligent preventive routines and attentive oversight. Effective rota management and staff scheduling are essential to ensure seamless operations. Prompt reporting and resolution of equipment issues are also expected. Ongoing training is a priority, so you'll keep yourself and your team up to date with Skillgate compliance.

Health and Safety

You are expected to champion a spotless, safe kitchen that not only meets but exceeds health and safety standards, including COSHH, First Aid, PPE, and hazard awareness. Your familiarity with fire prevention, emergency responses, and evacuation procedures should be second to none. You will foster a secure atmosphere and communicate any concerns swiftly to management.

Food Safety

We expect you to lead by example in upholding the highest standards of food safety, hygiene, and statutory compliance at all times.

People Management

Your leadership should inspire and unite the kitchen team, cultivating a positive, inclusive, and ambitious culture. You will be expected to attract, train, and nurture talented individuals, ensuring everyone is motivated and equipped to succeed. Regular feedback, clear goals, and thoughtful performance reviews will help your team grow. You'll address any issues with professionalism and positivity. Finally, you'll encourage continuous development, keeping your team ahead of industry trends and best practice.

What We're Looking For

• A dynamic, visionary leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment.
• Proven experience in a similar Head Chef or Kitchen Manager role.
• Exceptional organisational and people management skills.
• A passion for food innovation and delivering excellence on every plate.
• Commitment to maintaining the highest food safety and health standards.
• Ability to inspire, motivate, and develop a strong kitchen team.

Why Join Ocean?

• Freedom to bring your ideas to life and shape our culinary direction.
• Collaborative, supportive leadership team and dynamic work environment.
• Opportunities for personal and professional growth.
• Be part of a restaurant that values your input and celebrates success together.

Team Benefits

• Starting from 23 days annual leave (pro rata), rising with tenure to 28 days, plus bank holidays
• Enhanced sickness pay scheme (following probation)
• Free gym, swim & group exercise membership
• Staff Perks Discount Card – up to 20% off at food outlets and many other LED benefits
• My Staff Shop Employee Benefit Scheme – save money on your shopping
• Employee Assistance Programme & counselling
• Annual leave purchase scheme
• Free bowling for you & your household at Ocean
• Free soft play for dependents of team members at Ocean
• Personal development training
• Flexible working
• Pension scheme
• Voluntary health cash plan
• Above & Beyond Award Scheme

Diversity & Inclusion

At LED Group, we are committed to diversity and inclusion. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and abilities—what matters most is your passion and dedication to making a positive impact

Closing date

If you're ready to lead with passion, drive change, and create a team you'll be proud of, we want to hear from you

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: £36,000.00-£40,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Company pension
• Cycle to work scheme
• Employee discount
• Sick pay

Work Location: In person