Job Description
Head Chef / Kitchen Manager
Location: Godalming, Surrey
Salary: 31,000 - 32,000
Hours: 42.5 hours per week - daytime hours (8am-5pm) - alternate weekends
About the Role
We're looking for a Head Chef (titled Kitchen Manager internally) to lead the kitchen team within a well-established garden centre restaurant/cafe.
This is a daytime-hours role offering genuine work-life balance, working 8am-5pm on a structured rota. You'll have full responsibility for the kitchen team and day-to-day running of the back of house operation.
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
We know how important balance is, especially in hospitality, and this role is designed with that firmly in mind:
- No Evening Shifts:Your evenings are your own - no late nights or split shifts.
- Family-Friendly Holidays:Closed on Christmas Day and Boxing Day, so you can properly switch off and enjoy time at home.
- Excellent Benefits Package:Includes lifestyle and retail discounts, health cash plans, and generous staff discounts.
- Free On-Site Parking:Easy, stress-free commuting.
- Ample Time Off:A full-time, permanent role with a strong focus on wellbeing.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and manage a kitchen team of 4-6 chefs plus kitchen porters.
- Oversee daily kitchen operations, ensuring service runs smoothly and efficiently.
- Manage ordering, stock takes, and kitchen controls.
- Maintain high standards of food quality, hygiene, and consistency.
- Provide clear direction and leadership to a team that needs structure and motivation.
- Add to menu through occasional specials.
What We're Looking For
- Head Chef background preferred, or a strong Sous Chef ready to step up.
- Confident leader - someone who can take charge, set standards and lead a team that needs direction.
- Organised and commercially aware, with experience managing stock and kitchen processes.
Perks & Benefits
- Daytime hours (8am-5pm)
- Structured rota with alternate weekends
- Supportive senior management team
- Skilled team beneath you
- Free onsite parking, staff discounts
- Immediate start available
What's Next?
To apply, please send your CV to (url removed)
Or call (phone number removed) for a confidential chat about the role.
