Head Chef

Head Chef | £50,000+ package | Excellent work-life balance

Head Chef opportunity in Shaftesbury with a £50,000+ package, menu autonomy and Sunday evenings, Mondays and Tuesdays off.

We’re looking for an experienced Head Chef to take the lead in a family-owned pub with rooms, overseeing a busy kitchen serving 40-60 covers per day alongside regular functions. This is a fantastic opportunity for a Chef who wants creative freedom, a supportive environment and a genuine work-life balance.

Why apply / What’s in it for you?

• £40,000-£48,000 salary depending on experience
• Approx. £4,000-£5,000 in tips
• Sunday evenings, Mondays and Tuesdays off
• Short-term accommodation available if relocating
• Full menu autonomy and input into bespoke function menus
• Family-owned business with a friendly, hands-on approach
• Excellent work-life balance with a consistent four-day working pattern
• Conveniently located and commutable from Gillingham, Wincanton and Sherborne

Key Responsibilities

As Head Chef, you’ll take ownership of the kitchen and play a key role in shaping the food offering.

• Lead and support the kitchen team across daily service
• Plan and develop seasonal menus with full creative input
• Create bespoke menus for regular functions of around 25-30 covers
• Maintain consistently high standards across 40-60 covers per day
• Manage kitchen organisation, ordering and stock control
• Ensure excellent food quality, presentation and hygiene standards

What we’re looking for

We’re looking for an experienced Chef who is confident leading a busy kitchen and enjoys having a genuine say in the food offering.

• Previous Head Chef experience in a busy pub, hotel or restaurant
• Strong menu planning and development skills
• Experience catering for functions and private events
• A hands-on approach with excellent attention to detail
• Good leadership and kitchen management skills
• Someone who enjoys working within an independent, family-owned environment

If you’re an experienced Head Chef looking for a new opportunity in Shaftesbury with great earning potential, creative freedom and a rare four-day working pattern, we’d love to hear from you. Apply now.

Job Number │ 48962 / INDSOTONCHEF
Location │ Shaftesbury
Role │ Head Chef

Platinum Recruitment is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.