Operations Head Chef

Operations Head Chef

Start an exciting new chapter in your hospitality career at Hickory's Smokehouse - We are thrilled to have been recently crowned the 'Best Pub Employer' for 2025 at The Publican Awards!

Join us as an Operations Head Chef, and we can offer you a generous package of up to £47,000 per year PLUS tip jar, uncapped bonus, and car contributions!

We're looking for an Operations Head Chef to lead our passionate brigades of BBQ enthusiasts. You will be responsible for running our bespoke kitchens and delivering the very best food that a Smokehouse can offer. Are you an experienced or aspiring Area Chef seeking your next challenge? You will join us on a full-time, permanent basis with a competitive package. Due to our exciting expansion plans, we offer fantastic opportunities and a company culture that values work-life balance. Apply now and learn more about this opportunity.

Key responsibilities of our Operations Head Chef:

• Inspire, motivate, and manage the back-of-house management team's performance and succession planning
• Oversee enthusiastic and hardworking teams delivering high-standard service
• Promote a positive workplace culture through training, development, and embodying our five-star values
• Support the Executive Chef in the continuous development and growth of our kitchens
• Ensure all kitchen compliance and drive high standards throughout

Essential requirements of a Hickory's Operations Head Chef:

• Previous experience in a similar role within a fast-paced restaurant environment
• Ability to lead and inspire multiple teams
• Excellent organisational skills
• Flexible and adaptable approach to work
• Willingness to travel and commute for the opportunity
• Must have a driving license and access to a car

Thank You's & Benefits:

• A generous Operations Head Chef package of up to £47,000 per year
• The opportunity to work in a £250k bespoke built kitchen with authentic smokers imported from the USA
• Excellent training & progression opportunities through our award-winning Hickory's Training Academy
• Birthday reward meal for you and your friends every year
• Free BBQ on shift - team food & drinks menu
• Christmas Day off every year
• Moments that matter - paid days off for special occasions (wedding, child's first day at school, moving into a first home, and more)
• Team Player card - 25% discount for you and 5 friends at all Hickory's locations (rising to 50% for loyal service)
• Road trips to the Southern States, Europe, and the UK, along with enrichment opportunities
• Wellbeing support and 24-hour access to our wellness program, with a Wellbeing Champion in each restaurant
• Our commitment to work-life balance, monitored and managed through our Red Zone
• A chance to give back through fundraising activities for Cash For Kids
• Up to £500 through our refer-a-friend scheme

If this sounds appealing or you'd like to learn more, click 'apply' now to become our next Operations Head Chef.

REF: INDSP ASCNO