Head Chef

Head Chef

Department: Culinary

Employment Type: Permanent

Location: Medlock Square

Description

Medlock Square marks a bold new chapter in the evolution of the Etihad Campus - a vibrant, year round destination for culture, leisure and entertainment, set alongside two global icons: the Etihad Stadium, home of Manchester City Football Club, and the landmark Co op Live arena.

Named after the River Medlock that runs beneath the site, the development celebrates Manchester's industrial heritage while shaping its next era of city defining experiences. Manchester is known worldwide for its sport, music and entertainment - and Medlock Square will build on that legacy, creating a landmark home for exceptional shared moments and elevating the city's position as one of Europe's most dynamic, fast growing destinations.

At the heart of this new district will be an extraordinary food and beverage offer: from relaxed coffee houses and all day dining to flagship restaurants and premium culinary experiences. Designed to serve both everyday visitors and major event audiences, Medlock Square will deliver high quality hospitality all week long and across the events calendar.

About the role

We're looking for visionary culinary leaders who can shape menus, drive kitchen culture and bring creativity, consistency and excellence to our restaurants. You'll have the freedom to innovate, the platform to lead, and the opportunity to help define some of Manchester's most exciting new dining experiences.

As Head Chef you will lead the kitchen operation of a high end restaurant, delivering an elevated, premium dining experience.

The role focuses on culinary excellence, precision, and leadership, bringing the Development Chef's creative vision to life while owning the day to day delivery, consistency, and performance of the kitchen. You will be accountable for menu execution, quality, brigade leadership, and maintaining uncompromising standards at every service.

Operating in a high profile, fast paced environment - including matchdays and events - you will balance creativity with control, delivering an experience that is theatrical, seamless, and memorable.

In this role you will:

• Lead and deliver a high-performing kitchen operation, ensuring exceptional food quality, consistency, and premium service standards across all services, including events and matchdays.
• Execute and evolve menus in line with brand direction, maintaining culinary excellence through innovation, precision, and rigorous quality control.
• Build, lead, and develop a skilled brigade, fostering a high-performance culture of accountability, teamwork, and attention to detail.
• Maintain full compliance with food safety, health & safety, and operational standards, ensuring best-in-class kitchen practices at all times.
• Drive strong commercial performance through effective cost control, stock management, and continuous improvement of kitchen efficiency and guest experience.

Skills, Knowledge & Expertise Essential

• Proven experience as a Head Chef in a premium, high-volume restaurant or hotel environment
• Strong experience delivering breakfast, all day dining, and evening service formats
• Ability to run a fast paced kitchen operation with consistency and structure
• Excellent leadership and people management skills
• Strong understanding of food safety, hygiene, and allergen legislation
• Experience managing food costs, stock control, GP margins, and waste
• Ability to train and develop junior chefs and kitchen teams
• Strong organisational and time management skills
• Calm, confident decision making under pressure
• Passion for quality, detail, and guest experience
• Ability to work a flexible schedule including evenings, weekends, and holidays

Desirable

• Experience in a destination led or branded restaurant concept
• Experience with new openings or relaunches
• Menu development and concept work
• Knowledge of local suppliers and seasonal produce
• Experience working with large FOH teams

Why Join Us?

• Be part of a flagship destination set to redefine hospitality in Manchester
• Work within a world class entertainment and cultural district
• Build and lead new teams from the ground up
• Influence concepts, menus and guest experiences
• Grow your career within a pioneering and high profile development

Meals on Shifts - Enjoy lunch & dinner while you work.

Competitive Holiday Allowance - plus bank holidays.

Birthday Day Off - Enjoy an extra day off to celebrate your birthday.

Inclusive & Diverse Workplace - Be part of a team that values diversity and inclusion.

Wellbeing - Support and resources to help you stay well, both in and outside of work.