Jobs, fresher vacancy - The Boxford - Head Chef • West Berkshire

Company: The Boxford

West Berkshire

Job DescriptionThe Boxford is a vibrant, ambitious Mediterranean restaurant where seasonal creativity, precision, and excellence are at the hearts of our culinary identity. As Head Chef, you will lead and inspire a high-performing kitchen team to deliver exceptional food, memorable experiences, and operational excellence.This role requires strong leadership, technical expertise, an obsession with detail, and the ability to maintain calm, focus, and professionalism within a dynamic kitchen environment.You will shape the culinary direction of The Boxford - driving innovation, developing menus that celebrate flavour, and ensuring consistent delivery of outstanding dishes. You will also cultivate a warm, respectful, and collaborative team culture that supports growth, learning, and long-term development.Salary Package: £40,000 - £55,000 (dependent on experience)Key ResponsibilitiesLeadership & Team DevelopmentInspire, lead and motivate the kitchen team to achieve business goals and exceptional service standardsMentor, coach, and train team members through regular 1:1s, PDPs, and performance managementManage recruitment, interviewing, hiring, onboarding, and succession planningCreate a culture of excellence, learning, and mutual respect; uphold grooming, professionalism, and hygiene standardsEnsure high morale and team engagement through positive daily leadershipKitchen Operations & StandardsManage day-to-day kitchen operations to ensure smooth, efficient service for approximately 65 covers (up to 90 in peak service)Oversee food preparation, plating, and consistency to a high Rosette-level standardMaintain impeccable mise en place, production, cleanliness, and adherence to hygiene and food safety protocolsEnsure the kitchen remains clean, efficient, and compliant with all H&S legislation (COSHH, Food Safety, Legal Regulations, Environmental Policies)Operate and maintain all kitchen equipment to ensure safe and effective 24/7 operationMenu Development & Culinary CreativityLead on menu development, bringing seasonal, innovative, modern Italian flavours to lifeDrive innovation and continuously improve culinary standards, techniques, and processesGuide team members to cook and present dishes of exceptional quality, ensuring consistent guest satisfactionStock, Budget & ProfitabilityManage all food budgets, recipe costing, GP targets, and overall kitchen profitabilityPlan and manage ordering in line with anticipated business levelsOversee stock rotation, storage, food utilisation, portion control, and waste minimisationAdministration & ComplianceComplete and oversee all kitchen administration tasks including due diligence logs, compliance documentation, and daily checklistsMonitor adherence to all kitchen policies and procedures and implement improvements where requiredAttend and conduct departmental meetings to ensure smooth operational communication across the businessManage rotas, shift coverage, and resource planning across restaurant, and events operationsAnticipate guest needs and manage challenging service situations with professionalism and calm authorityWhy join The Boxford?A nuturing, collaborative environment where talent is recognised, supported, and developedGenuine opportunities for progression into Senior leadership rolesOngoing training and development to support personal and professional growthA culture that celebrates initiative, curiosity, creativity, and attention to detailHours per week: 45