Head Chef

Job Summary

We are seeking an experienced and passionate Head Chef to lead our culinary team in the beautiful market town of Dorking, Surrey. The successful candidate will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of food preparation, ensuring high standards of quality, safety, and presentation. This role requires strong leadership skills, extensive culinary expertise, and a commitment to delivering exceptional dining experiences. The Head Chef will play a pivotal role in menu development, staff supervision, and maintaining efficient kitchen operations. Agreed salary will be dependent on level of experience and delivery of high-end customer experience. We are open to discussions about bonuses based on food sales to build a thriving food-led establishment that's bespoke to the area.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the kitchen team, including sous chefs, cooks, and kitchen assistants, fostering a positive and productive working environment
• Oversee food production activities to ensure consistency, quality, and presentation meet brand standards
• Have an input on our innovative menus that reflect current culinary trends whilst catering to customer preferences
• Ensure strict adherence to food safety regulations and hygiene standards across all kitchen operations
• Supervise food preparation processes, including cooking, plating, and portion sizing
• Manage inventory levels, order supplies, and minimise waste to optimise kitchen efficiency
• Train, mentor and up-skill staff to enhance their food preparation, cooking techniques, and customer service
• Collaborate with front-of-house teams to ensure seamless service delivery and customer satisfaction
• Monitor kitchen operations during service hours to uphold high standards of cleanliness and organisation

Skills

• Proven supervising experience within a professional kitchen environment
• Extensive culinary experience with a strong background in food production and restaurant operations
• Excellent team management skills with the ability to motivate and lead diverse groups of staff
• Proficiency in food preparation techniques and cooking methods across various cuisines
• Sound knowledge of food safety standards and regulations
• Strong leadership qualities with the ability to make quick decisions calmly when under pressure
• Exceptional organisational skills with attention to detail in menu planning and inventory management
• Experience in hospitality settings with a focus on delivering outstanding customer service
• Ability to serve as a role model for professionalism and culinary excellence

This position offers an exciting opportunity for a dedicated culinary professional eager to lead a dynamic team in delivering exceptional dining experiences.

A little bit more about us...

We are on the lookout for a passionate and experienced Head Chef to lead the kitchen at The Queen's Head, a popular and well-established pub nestled in the heart of Dorking, Surrey. This is an exciting opportunity for a motivated and versatile chef to manage a fully equipped kitchen and play a key role in the continued success of our food offering. The role will commence early January 2026.

What we're Looking for:

Proven experience in a Head Chef or Senior Chef role

Strong leadership skills to manage and inspire a small kitchen team

Versatility and creativity in menu planning, using seasonal and locally sourced ingredients

Excellent knowledge of stock control, gross profit calculations, and wastage management

A commitment to high standards of cleanliness, presentation, and consistency

Level 3 Food Safety qualification is desirable

Ability to innovate while respecting classic pub dishes

Understanding of current food trends and passion for using fresh, local produce

What we offer:

A well-equipped kitchen

Supportive management team and opportunity to shape our food direction

Competitive salary based on experience

Opportunities for growth and development

A great working environment in a friendly, community-focused pub

If you're an enthusiastic chef ready to bring energy, creativity, and leadership to a kitchen you can guide, we'd love to hear from you. To apply, please send your CV and a short cover letter to

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: £35,000.00-£50,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Additional leave
• Casual dress
• Company events
• Discounted or free food
• Employee discount
• Free parking
• On-site parking
• Profit sharing
• Sick pay
• Transport links
• UK visa sponsorship

Work Location: In person