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Head Chef or Kitchen Manager
Two-bedroom cottage, 5-minute walk to work, No Nights - Daytime only
Salary 40k to 45k
A Caf is beautifully situated on the shores of Coniston Water in the heart of the English Lake District and forms part of the popular Coniston Boating Centre, a thriving tourist destination offering a wide range of water-based activities.
A family-run, independent business,employing up to 30 staff during peak season across Front of House and Kitchen. With seating for over 140 covers, we operate a high-volume counter service and app-ordering system, serving freshly prepared food, drinks, alcohol and ice creams throughout the day and into early evening during the summer months. The caf is open daily all year (except Christmas Day).
Due to continued success, we are now looking to recruit an experienced, motivated and hands-on Head Chef to lead our busy kitchen operation.
The Role
As Head Chef, you will take overall responsibility for the kitchen, leading from the front in a fast-paced, high-volume environment. You will ensure consistently high food quality, strong cost controls, excellent hygiene standards and a positive, professional kitchen culture.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead, train and delegate kitchen staff at all levels, setting the standard through example
- Manage high-volume catering operations with a consistent focus on quality and detail
- Maintain clear and effective communication with Directors, Senior Management and Front of House
- Trial, cost and implement seasonal menu specials with management approval
- Ensure full compliance with all food safety, hygiene and health & safety regulations (COSHH, HACCP, First Aid)
- Maintain up-to-date allergen information and ensure strong awareness of food allergies and dietary requirements
- Keep all ingredient and allergen lists current and available at the counter
- Demonstrate creativity and awareness of current food trends within similar establishments
- Manage stock control, ordering, rotation, storage, labelling and recording
- Ensure all kitchen equipment is functioning correctly and report faults promptly
- Keep recipe files accurate and fully updated
- Deliver strong GP control through waste reduction, accurate recording and cost control
- Carry out daily and deep cleaning of all kitchen equipment and appliances
- Show flexibility with working hours to meet business needs and seasonal demands
The Ideal Candidate
- Proven experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef in a high-volume environment
- A natural leader with excellent communication and organisational skills
- High personal standards with a professional, positive and flexible attitude
- Strong understanding of food safety, allergens and kitchen compliance
- Commercially aware with sound stock and GP control experience
- Passionate about fresh food, teamwork and customer satisfaction
What We Offer
- A stunning lakeside working environment
- Two-bedroom Cottage recently refurbished
- A stable, year-round position within a successful family-run business
- Supportive management team
- Competitive salary 40 to 45k
- The opportunity to make a real impact on menus, standards and kitchen operations
