Head Chef, Staff Restaurant

Head Chef – Beaches (Seafront Restaurant) Full-time | Competitive Salary Beaches is a well established seafront restaurant located in the heart of Southend-on-Sea, directly opposite Adventure Island and moments from Southend Pier – one of the most iconic coastal locations in the UK. With over 40 years of trading history, Beaches has long been a go to destination for locals and tourists alike. Now under new ownership, the business is entering an exciting new phase of growth and transformation. to evolve Beaches into a must-visit food destination known not just for its location, but for consistently great food, strong branding, and an exceptional customer experience.’ Improving food quality, consistency, and presentation across the menu * Building a stronger, more structured kitchen operation * Developing the Beaches brand through social media and local reputation * We are looking for an experienced and driven Head Chef to lead the kitchen and help take Beaches to the next level. This role is not just about running a kitchen, it’s about taking pride in the food created, building a product, a team, and a reputation. Delivering consistent, high-quality food in a fast-paced environment * Improving existing dishes and overall kitchen standards * Supporting the gradual evolution of the menu and food concept * Building a reliable, efficient, and motivated kitchen team Typical shifts range from approximately 9–11am starts to 6–9pm finishes (depending on season) Overtime available, particularly during peak summer months Restaurant capacity: approx. 135–140 covers (65 outdoor decking / 60–70 indoor) Kitchen Leadership & Operations Manage and lead a team of 2–3 chefs and kitchen staff Take ownership of all day-to-day kitchen operations Create clear structure, roles, and accountability within the kitchen Ensure high standards of food quality, consistency, and presentation Maintain strong hygiene and food safety standards (EHO compliance) Menu Development & Food Quality Focus on improving quality without slowing down service speed Ensure food presentation is consistent and appealing Monitor and control food costs to protect margins Reduce waste and improve overall kitchen efficiency Maintain tight control over food costs and kitchen efficiency Ensure full compliance with food hygiene and safety regulations Maintain a high Food Hygiene Rating (EHO standards) Ensure all kitchen records and checks are completed accurately Uphold health and safety standards across the kitchen Brand & Growth Contribution Contribute ideas to help build the Beaches brand and reputation Play a role in improving customer experience through food quality Work with ownership on new ideas, promotions, and menu direction Play a key role in transforming Beaches into a recognised local hotspot 5–10+ years’ experience in hospitality kitchens (pubs, casual dining, or fast-paced environments) Previous experience as a Head Chef or strong Sous Chef ready to step up Strong background in high-volume, fast-service food operations Experience with similar menus (fried food, grills, breakfast, casual dining) xkybehq Proven ability to manage and develop a small kitchen team Commercial awareness – understands margins, waste, and efficiency Takes pride in delivering consistent, high-quality food Opportunity to shape the kitchen, menu, and food standards * Play a key role in building a recognised local brand * Long-term progression opportunities as the business grows Competitive salary (up to £18.50 per hour, based on experience) * Performance-based incentives linked to kitchen performance * Opportunity to grow with the business long-term * Additional hours available throughout summer months * Free tea/coffee for staff * Staff discounts on food If you’re a motivated chef looking to step into a leadership role or take your Head Chef experience to the next level and want to be part of building something, we’d love to hear from you….