Jobs, fresher vacancy - Head Chef • Derbyshire

Company: Knekt Hub

Derbyshire

Head Chef – Modern Brasserie Concept | £36,000 | 40 Hours | Ideal First Head Chef Role Location: Derby Salary: £36,000 DOE Hours: Approx. 40 hours per week Contract: Full-time, permanent A rare opportunity has opened for a talented Junior Sous or Sous Chef ready for their first Head Chef role, OR an experienced Head Chef seeking a better work-life balance, working an average 40-hour week in a supportive, established environment. The restaurant is transitioning from a formal, fine-dining identity to a more modern, relaxed brasserie-style concept with a focus on flavour, simplicity, and fresh seasonal cooking. This is an exciting moment to step in and help define the next chapter. It’s the perfect setup for someone who wants creative input, stability, and a calmer pace—without losing the enjoyment and pride that comes with cooking great food. About the Venue This well-established riverside restaurant has a strong local following and is evolving its offer to become more accessible and contemporary. Expect a menu based around: Fresh pastas Grilled meats & steaks Flatbreads Fish dishes Seasonal small plates Classic favourites cooked from scratch High quality, modern, flavour-led cooking without fine dining pressure. The Opportunity You’ll have a genuine say in the direction of the kitchen and will be trusted to: Help develop and shape the new menu Refine prep systems & kitchen organisation Lead a small, capable team Maintain consistency and quality Recruit and train your right-hand support when needed Bring fresh ideas that suit the changing concept This is a supportive environment ideal for someone stepping up for the first time OR someone experienced who wants a less intense pace than high-end kitchens. Working Pattern (Approx. 40 Hours) A realistic and balanced rota based on updated opening hours: Wednesday – Friday: Prep + dinner service Saturday: Brunch/lunch + dinner Sunday: Daytime service only A Head Chef role without 60–70 hour weeks — extremely rare in today’s market. What We’re Looking For A strong Junior Sous or Sous Chef wanting progression OR an experienced Head Chef wanting a more manageable schedule Background in fresh food restaurants, modern British, or brasserie-style kitchens Calm, organised leadership style Creative flair with understanding of costings Able to run a small kitchen confidently Someone excited to build a new identity and menu direction Passion for flavour-led cooking without unnecessary complexity Salary & Package ££36,000, depending on experience Opportunity to increase salary as the new concept grows Full creative input into menus Ability to shape your own team Supportive ownership and a collaborative working culture Staff meals, pension contribution, and typical restaurant benefits Why This Role Stands Out Perfect first Head Chef step-up Equally ideal for an experienced Head Chef wanting a better lifestyle 40-hour week Creative freedom Supportive owners, no corporate pressure A respected venue ready for a fresh direction Apply Now For more details or to apply: jonny@knekthub.com 0161 528 5555