Head Chef

Head Chef – Modern Brasserie Concept £36,000 40 Hours Ideal First Head Chef Role

Location: Derby

Salary: £36,000 DOE

Hours: Approx. 40 hours per week

Contract: Full-time, permanent

A rare opportunity has opened for a talented Junior Sous or Sous Chef ready for their first Head Chef role, OR an experienced Head Chef seeking a better work-life balance, working an average 40-hour week in a supportive, established environment.

The restaurant is transitioning from a formal, fine-dining identity to a more modern, relaxed brasserie-style concept with a focus on flavour, simplicity, and fresh seasonal cooking. This is an exciting moment to step in and help define the next chapter.

It’s the perfect setup for someone who wants creative input, stability, and a calmer pace—without losing the enjoyment and pride that comes with cooking great food.

About the Venue

This well-established riverside restaurant has a strong local following and is evolving its offer to become more accessible and contemporary. Expect a menu based around:

Fresh pastas

Grilled meats & steaks

Flatbreads

Fish dishes

Seasonal small plates

Classic favourites cooked from scratch

High quality, modern, flavour-led cooking without fine dining pressure.

The Opportunity

You’ll have a genuine say in the direction of the kitchen and will be trusted to:

Help develop and shape the new menu

Refine prep systems & kitchen organisation

Lead a small, capable team

Maintain consistency and quality

Recruit and train your right-hand support when needed

Bring fresh ideas that suit the changing concept

This is a supportive environment ideal for someone stepping up for the first time OR someone experienced who wants a less intense pace than high-end kitchens.

Working Pattern (Approx. 40 Hours)

A realistic and balanced rota based on updated opening hours:

Wednesday – Friday: Prep + dinner service

Saturday: Brunch/lunch + dinner

Sunday: Daytime service only

A Head Chef role without 60–70 hour weeks — extremely rare in today’s market.

What We’re Looking For

A strong Junior Sous or Sous Chef wanting progression OR an experienced Head Chef wanting a more manageable schedule

Background in fresh food restaurants, modern British, or brasserie-style kitchens

Calm, organised leadership style

Creative flair with understanding of costings

Able to run a small kitchen confidently

Someone excited to build a new identity and menu direction

Passion for flavour-led cooking without unnecessary complexity

Salary & Package

££36,000, depending on experience

Opportunity to increase salary as the new concept grows

Full creative input into menus

Ability to shape your own team

Supportive ownership and a collaborative working culture

Staff meals, pension contribution, and typical restaurant benefits

Why This Role Stands Out

Perfect first Head Chef step-up

Equally ideal for an experienced Head Chef wanting a better lifestyle

40-hour week

Creative freedom

Supportive owners, no corporate pressure

A respected venue ready for a fresh direction

Apply Now

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