Kitchen Manager/Head Chef

Head Chef / Kitchen Manager – New Concept Launch
Location: Oxfordshire
Salary: Up to £45,000 (Base + Tronc)
Start Date: Late September

We’re on the hunt for a talented and commercially minded Head Chef / Kitchen Manager to take the reins of a brand-new kitchen in Oxfordshire, ahead of an exciting concept launch this autumn.

This isn’t just another pub kitchen – it’s a chance to be part of a full transformation project, introducing a vibrant, family-friendly BBQ & Smokehouse-style menu in a beautifully refurbished Cotswold setting. With an expected 200+ covers and projected weekly food sales of £20k, this is a role for a chef who thrives in high-volume, fast-paced environments while keeping quality at the heart of every plate.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Lead the kitchen through the pre-opening phase, from equipment set-up to team recruitment and training

• Deliver a spec-led, branded menu with consistency, quality, and speed

• Build and develop a kitchen brigade, growing from a small core team to 6-7 chefs

• Manage all BOH operations – rotas, GP targets, stock ordering, and compliance

• Maintain rigorous hygiene, allergen, and food safety standards

• Work closely with senior management to hit commercial goals and delight guests

About You

• Proven experience running a high-volume, branded or spec-led kitchen

• Strong leadership skills with a passion for mentoring and developing people

• Operationally savvy with a solid grip on GP, cost control, and ordering

• Resilient, organised, and ready to adapt in a busy launch environment

• Enthusiastic about delivering consistent, great-tasting food in a fun and relaxed setting

What’s on Offer

• Competitive salary package up to £45k (including tronc)

• Work with a brand-new kitchen and modern facilities

• Opportunity to be part of a high-profile concept launch in the Cotswolds

• Real career progression potential as the concept grows across multiple sites

If you’re ready to make your mark on a flagship opening and lead a kitchen you can truly make your own, this is your chance.

INDBOH