Head Chef - Restaurant - Christchurch - £40kp/a

JN -072026-131638_1784206342
  • £38000.00 - £40000.00 per annum
  • Christchurch, Dorset

Head Chef - Christchurch

Live-Out Role | Straight Shifts | 45 Hours Minimum Per Week

Are you an experienced Head Chef looking for a role that offers excellent work-life balance, straight shifts, and the opportunity to lead a well-established kitchen?

We are recruiting for a Head Chef to take charge of a busy pub restaurant in Christchurch, serving quality pub classics and fresh food to a loyal customer base.

What's on Offer?

  • Competitive salary (dependent on experience)
  • Minimum 45 hours per week
  • 5 days out of 7
  • Straight shifts only
  • Kitchen operating hours: 12:00pm - 8:00pm
  • Live-out position
  • Supportive ownership and management team
  • Autonomy to lead and develop the kitchen operation

About the Venue

  • Popular pub with a strong food reputation
  • Fresh food and traditional pub grub offering
  • Up to 150 covers during peak service
  • Steady trade with a mix of locals and visitors
  • Well-organised kitchen and established team

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead, motivate, and develop the kitchen team.
  • Manage all aspects of kitchen operations, ensuring smooth daily service.
  • Maintain high standards of food quality, consistency, and presentation.
  • Control stock levels, ordering, GP, and kitchen costs.
  • Ensure full compliance with food safety, health & safety, and hygiene regulations.
  • Create and deliver seasonal menus in line with the pub's style and customer expectations.
  • Train and mentor junior chefs and kitchen staff.

What We're Looking For

  • Previous experience as a Head Chef or strong Sous Chef ready to step up.
  • Experience in high-volume fresh food or pub environments.
  • Strong leadership and kitchen management skills.
  • Good understanding of stock control, margins, and labour management.
  • Passion for quality food and delivering excellent guest experiences.
  • Calm and organised approach during busy services.

This is a fantastic opportunity for a talented Head Chef seeking a stable role with straight shifts, sensible operating hours, and the chance to make their mark on a thriving Christchurch pub.

Apply today to find out more. 🍴

Blue Arrow is proud to be a Disability Confident Employer and is committed to helping find great work opportunities for great people.

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