Hesketh James are delighted to be working in partnership with a growing, independent restaurant group, who are passionate about delivering exceptional food, memorable guest experiences, and a great place to work (Sunday Times accredited!) With multiple stunning venues across Cheshire, Staffordshire and beyond, these guys are shaking up the pub game with chef-led menus, fresh seasonal ingredients, and kitchens that run on creativity—not chaos.
And now, they are looking for a Senior Operations Chef who’s ready to take the reins, leading four high-performing sites across South Cheshire.
We are on the hunt for a driven, creative, passionate Senior Operations Chef who can build, train and lead his teams, whilst delivering GP%, NPS, Labour control and Food Safety Audits. We are looking for a calm, natural leader, someone that gets a real kick out of coaching, motivating and developing their team. All whilst ensuring that customer satisfaction and quality standards are of paramount priority.
Senior Operations Chef Responsibilities:
Team Management & Training
- Lead and mentor Head Chefs and kitchen teams at each site.
- Recruit, train, and develop kitchen staff
- Conduct regular performance reviews and set development goals
- Promote a positive and professional kitchen culture
Operations & Coordination
- Coordinate kitchen operations across all four sites
- Ensure each kitchen adheres to standard operating procedures
- Monitor and manage food prep workflows to optimise efficiency
- Assist with kitchen layout planning and equipment needs
Financial Oversight
- Manage food cost targets and gross profit margins
- Negotiate with suppliers and manage stock levels
- Oversee budget planning and control wastage
Health, Safety & Compliance
- Ensure full compliance with food hygiene and safety regulations
- Conduct regular audits and enforce HACCP standards
- Train staff on safety procedures and allergen management
Brand & Customer Experience
Ensure each kitchen delivers a consistently excellent guest experience Gather and respond to customer feedback to improve offerings Represent the culinary brand at events or press opportunities
Strategic Planning
- Contribute to long-term growth and expansion plans
- Work with the Group Exec Chef to develop seasonal campaigns and special events menus
- Forecast staffing, supply, and budget needs
Should you be successful, you will benefit from:
- Hourly paid overtime (get paid for every hour you work!)
- Bonus scheme
- Generous service charge
- A highly regarded employer, offering unrivalled opportunities for growth and progression.
- 50% of food when dining at any restaurant.
- Employee Assistance Programme
- EV scheme
- Vitality Private Healthcare
Hesketh James are committed to diversity and inclusion. We welcome all applicants regardless of identity, personal characteristics or background.
Please note: We are expecting a high number of applications for this role and will be in touch with successful candidates within 72 hours of your application. Should you not hear from us within this period, we regret that you have not been shortlisted on this occasion.