Head Chef – Modern Brasserie Concept | £36,000 | 40 Hours | Ideal First Head Chef Role

Location: Derby
Salary: £36,000 DOE
Hours: Approx. 40 hours per week
Contract: Full-time, permanent

A rare opportunity has opened for a talented Junior Sous or Sous Chef ready for their first Head Chef role, OR an experienced Head Chef seeking a better work-life balance, working an average 40-hour week in a supportive, established environment.

The restaurant is transitioning from a formal, fine-dining identity to a more modern, relaxed brasserie-style concept with a focus on flavour, simplicity, and fresh seasonal cooking. This is an exciting moment to step in and help define the next chapter.

It’s the perfect setup for someone who wants creative input, stability, and a calmer pace—without losing the enjoyment and pride that comes with cooking great food.

About the Venue

This well-established riverside restaurant has a strong local following and is evolving its offer to become more accessible and contemporary. Expect a menu based around:

• Fresh pastas

• Grilled meats & steaks

• Flatbreads

• Fish dishes

• Seasonal small plates

• Classic favourites cooked from scratch

High quality, modern, flavour-led cooking without fine dining pressure.

The Opportunity

You’ll have a genuine say in the direction of the kitchen and will be trusted to:

• Help develop and shape the new menu

• Refine prep systems & kitchen organisation

• Lead a small, capable team

• Maintain consistency and quality

• Recruit and train your right-hand support when needed

• Bring fresh ideas that suit the changing concept

This is a supportive environment ideal for someone stepping up for the first time OR someone experienced who wants a less intense pace than high-end kitchens.

Working Pattern (Approx. 40 Hours)

A realistic and balanced rota based on updated opening hours:

• Wednesday – Friday: Prep + dinner service

• Saturday: Brunch/lunch + dinner

• Sunday: Daytime service only

A Head Chef role without 60–70 hour weeks — extremely rare in today’s market.

What We’re Looking For

• A strong Junior Sous or Sous Chef wanting progression OR an experienced Head Chef wanting a more manageable schedule

• Background in fresh food restaurants, modern British, or brasserie-style kitchens

• Calm, organised leadership style

• Creative flair with understanding of costings

• Able to run a small kitchen confidently

• Someone excited to build a new identity and menu direction

• Passion for flavour-led cooking without unnecessary complexity

Salary & Package

• ££36,000, depending on experience

• Opportunity to increase salary as the new concept grows

• Full creative input into menus

• Ability to shape your own team

• Supportive ownership and a collaborative working culture

• Staff meals, pension contribution, and typical restaurant benefits

Why This Role Stands Out

•  Perfect first Head Chef step-up
•  Equally ideal for an experienced Head Chef wanting a better lifestyle
•  40-hour week
•  Creative freedom
•  Supportive owners, no corporate pressure
•  A respected venue ready for a fresh direction

Apply Now

For more details or to apply:

jonny@knekthub.com
0161 528 5555