Berkhamsted
We are seeking an experienced Chef to lead our café kitchen team. The Chef will be responsible for managing daily kitchen operations, ensuring consistent high-quality food, and maintaining a clean, safe, and efficient kitchen. This role requires a balance of hands-on cooking and leadership to deliver an exceptional café experience for our customers. Responsibilities:
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Food Preparation and Quality Control: Oversee all aspects of food preparation to ensure dishes are prepared to meet our quality standards.
Ensure all dishes are presented in a consistent and appealing manner.
Conduct regular quality checks and make improvements as needed. Team Leadership and Management: Train, and supervise kitchen staff, including cooks, prep staff, and dishwashers.
Conduct regular team meetings, provide ongoing training, and encourage a positive, collaborative kitchen environment.
Manage kitchen schedules and delegate tasks to ensure efficient kitchen operations. Inventory and Supplier Management: Monitor inventory levels, order supplies, and manage vendor relationships to ensure timely delivery of fresh ingredients.
Conduct regular stock counts and ensure minimal waste.
Implement cost control measures and negotiate with suppliers to optimise purchasing. Kitchen Operations and Cleanliness: Ensure that all kitchen areas, including equipment and storage, are kept clean, sanitised, and organised.
Maintain compliance with all health and safety regulations and lead staff in safe food handling practices.
Coordinate regular maintenance of kitchen equipment and work with management to resolve any issues promptly. Cost and Waste Management: Monitor food costs, waste, and portion control to maximise efficiency and minimise expenses.
Implement and monitor waste reduction initiatives and cost-effective cooking practices.
Ensure accurate record-keeping for food inventory and costs. Customer Interaction and Feedback: Engage with customers and address any issues or special dietary requests.
Gather and respond to feedback to continually enhance the menu and overall customer experience. Health and Safety Compliance: Ensure all food safety and sanitation procedures are followed by all staff.
Conduct regular audits to maintain a safe and hygienic environment.
Maintain updated certifications and provide training to staff on best practices. Budgeting and Financial Management: Work with the management team to plan budgets and meet financial targets.
Monitor kitchen expenses and identify areas for improvement.
Analyse and report on kitchen performance metrics, such as food cost percentages and labor costs. Requirements: Proven experience as a Chef or Senior Chef, preferably in a café or casual dining environment.
Leadership experience with a demonstrated ability to train and motivate kitchen staff.
Excellent organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks under pressure.
Knowledge of health and safety regulations and a commitment to maintaining a clean and safe kitchen.
Ability to adapt to customer feedback and make improvements.
Strong budgeting and cost management skills. This position offers an exciting opportunity for a passionate culinary leader to shape the future of our café’s kitchen with a competitive salary. If you are dedicated to quality and enjoy inspiring others, we would love to hear from you!
