Skip to Main Content

Job Title


Head Chef


Company : Blue Arrow - Maidstone


Location : Brighton, England


Created : 2026-03-01


Job Type : Full Time


Job Description

Are you an experienced Head Chef ready for your next challenge?This is an exciting opportunity to lead the culinary operation at one of the South Coast's most vibrant sporting and events venues. You'll oversee all food preparation and kitchen activity across racedays, hospitality, fine dining, retail catering, and a growing schedule of non-raceday events.This role is perfect for a Head Chef who thrives in a fast-paced environment, enjoys leading a team, and takes pride in delivering high-quality, consistent food at scale.The RoleReporting to the Catering General Manager, you will oversee all kitchen operations, ensuring exceptional food quality, cost control, and compliance across a multi-outlet venue. You'll manage a team of Chefs, Trainees, and Kitchen Porters while ensuring all hygiene, safety, and legal standards are met.Key ResponsibilitiesWork closely with the Catering GM to meet revenue budgets and cost targetsPurchase within agreed parameters to achieve targeted food GPImplement and maintain the Food Safety Management SystemEnsure all menus are costed accurately and consistently meet GP% targetsCoordinate stock takes and manage stock levels effectivelySupport future purchasing decisions and kitchen redevelopment plansMaintain all EHO food safety standards and ensure full complianceUphold quality control throughout the entire production processControl portioning and minimise waste to protect marginsDevelop menus reflecting customer needs and current food trendsMaintain a safe, efficient, and well-organised kitchen environmentCollaborate closely with other departments for seamless event deliveryArrange staff training and development in partnership with the Catering GMManage rotas, allocate daily workloads, and record absence/sicknessConduct performance reviews and drive high standards across the teamKey Performance IndicatorsAchieving labour budgets and explaining variancesDriving recruitment and retention of kitchen staffReducing reliance on agency labourManaging site spend and controlling food marginsImproving food spend per head across racedays and eventsMaintaining excellent service standardsEnhancing the Owners' and Trainers' culinary experienceAbout YouWe're looking for a Head Chef who brings:Proven experience in a senior kitchen roleStrong understanding of HACCP, allergen management and food safety legislationConfidence managing budgets, purchasing, and stock controlExcellent leadership skills and the ability to inspire and develop a teamA creative, trend-aware approach to menu developmentStrong organisational and communication skillsThe ability to work under pressure with a calm, structured approachA genuine passion for delivering exceptional food and guest experiencesWhy Apply?This is a rare chance to take ownership of an entire venue's culinary offer, influence menu direction, build a strong kitchen team, and make a visible impact at a major hospitality and events site.If you're a driven, innovative Head Chef looking for a role with variety, responsibility, and room to shine - we'd love to hear from you.Blue Arrow is proud to be a Disability Confident Employer and is committed to helping find great work opportunities for great people.JBRP1_UKTJ