Chef Manager

Company Description

When we founded Benugo we had a vision of not just creating superb, natural food but of giving London something that was a real experience. This vision is still true today. The Benugo brand stretches from our own award-winning high street stores to cafes and restaurants within some of the world’s best loved public spaces and visitor attraction.

We are incredibly proud to be growing our partnership with John Lewis to deliver a new brand for their in-store restaurants in 32 of the retailer's stores. This is an incredibly exciting time to reimagine the offering with fresh, quality ingredients which are thoughtfully sourced and rooted in local suppliers. 

We are seeking an exceptional Chef Manager to lead a prestigious, high-profile partnership where culinary excellence meets strategic leadership. This is a rare opportunity to take the helm of a flagship operation representing two respected brands, delivering an outstanding food experience that reflects innovation, quality, and attention to detail at every level.

This role will evolve; with an initial phase where we lead, train and coach the team, and a later phase of being part of developing and growing the food menu towards sales growth.

Job Description

You will manage all kitchen operations, including menu execution, team member management, and compliance with Food Safety and Health and Safety regulations. The Chef Manager will ensure the food quality and consistency is maintained to the highest standards, whilst controlling their costs.

• Daily management and leadership of the team including skills development.
• Ensuring the team are trained in all aspects of the menu, equipment and procedures as required by John Lewis.
• To work with the General Manager to ensure labour costs are agreed to budget.
• To manage kitchen budgets, report on financial performance and implement any cost savings required without impacting delivery of excellence.
• Interacting with the customers to understand their specific catering needs and preferences, maintaining an open channel of communication to address their requirements.
• To drive sales and monitor costs through responsibly ordering.

Qualifications

• 3 years’ experience within a similar role
• Be commercially aware (understanding profit margins, purchasing, budgets, labour and food costs)
• Strong communication skills
• Meticulous attention to detail
• Passionate about delivering exceptional food dishes
• Positive can-do attitude
• Ability to work under pressure to meet business needs
• Good organisational skills
• Reliable and able to work well within a team
• Self-motivated and proactive

Additional Information

• Meal on shift
• Endless tea and coffee on shift
• Enrolment into the WSH pension scheme
• 28 days annual leave (plus extra day for your birthday off)
• Enhanced maternity, paternity and family friendly leave with length of service
• Access to everyday discounts and communication portal
• Employee Assistance Programme and qualified Mental Health First Aiders
• Cycle to Work scheme
• Opportunity to develop and further your career in an exciting company