Head Chef

Job Title: Head Chef Location: 80 Water Lane, Wilmslow, SK9 5BB Employer: Caramello Café
Salary: £32,000 – £36,000 Contract Type: Full-time, permanent
About Us Caramello Café is a modern and vibrant café concept, serving freshly prepared dishes, artisan coffee, and innovative seasonal menus. We pride ourselves on providing a warm and welcoming environment where great food meets exceptional service.
We are now seeking a Head Chef to lead our kitchen team and drive culinary excellence across our menu. This is an exciting opportunity for a passionate and experienced chef to bring creativity, leadership, and innovation to our café.
Role Responsibilities
As Head Chef, you will be responsible for the overall management of the kitchen, including but not limited to:
- Leading and managing all kitchen operations to ensure smooth and efficient service.
- Maintaining the highest standards of food preparation, presentation, and hygiene.
- Creating and developing innovative dishes in line with the café’s vision, while ensuring compliance with dietary and allergen requirements.
- Ensuring full compliance with UK food safety regulations and maintaining a 5* food hygiene rating.
- Implementing effective stock control, portion management, and cost control measures.
- Supervising, training, and coordinating the work of kitchen staff including chefs, line chefs, and kitchen assistants.
- Supporting the recruitment and development of kitchen staff to maintain a high-performing team.
- Monitoring kitchen performance, identifying areas for improvement, and implementing best practices.
- Working closely with café management to align menu offerings with customer demand and business goals.
Skills and Experience Required
- Proven experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef in a busy café, restaurant, or hospitality environment.
- Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate staff.
- Excellent knowledge of food safety regulations, HACCP, and allergen compliance.
- Creativity and passion for developing innovative menus and dishes.
- Strong organisational and time management skills, with the ability to perform under pressure.
- A good understanding of cost control, budgeting, and stock management.
- Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
- Flexibility to work shifts, including weekends and public holidays.
Qualifications
- Formal culinary training (NVQ Level 3 in Professional Cookery or equivalent) preferred.
- Food Hygiene and Safety Certification (Level 3 or above).
- HACCP training (desirable).
- Any additional certifications in nutrition, dietary requirements, or allergen management will be an advantage.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary package.
- Opportunity to lead and grow with a forward-thinking café brand.
- Staff discounts on food and beverages.
- Ongoing training and professional development.
- Supportive and collaborative work environment.
How to Apply
If you are passionate about food, thrive in a dynamic kitchen environment, and are ready to take on a leadership role, we would love to hear from you.
Please send your CV and a covering letter outlining your experience and suitability for the role to [email protected] with the subject line “Head Chef Application – Caramello Café” .