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Lead Chef
# Chief Lead Chef Role – Chester Zoo
Love creating exceptional food in a kitchen where every day brings something new? Join the talented culinary team at Chester Zoo as a Lead Chef.
About the Role
You’ll deliver memorable dining experiences across our unique venue portfolio while working within a thriving conservation-oriented kitchen. Operating across vibrant hubs such as Manado (Asian-inspired street food), The Oakfield (award-winning gastro pub), and our colleague canteen, you’ll showcase, develop, and curate culinary excellence rivalled by few.
Notably, the role thrives against a commitment to sustainability: zero-waste kitchens are aspired to by 2030, and all chefs are aligned with ethically sourced produce. Each of our venues supports Chester Zoo’s turnover of £12.5m, reinvested into global conservation missions—so your passion for quality aligns with purpose.
Key Responsibilities
Supporting Sous-Chefs and Head Chefs, you will:
- Lead day-to-day kitchen operations while deputising for absent managers and driving service recovery, acting as the first contact.
- AssistSousChefs in developing on-trend restaurant, gastro pub, and event menus, maintaining Chester Zoo’s world-class reputation across venues.
- Ensure customer-friendly food quality while maximising profit margins—each plate crafted to leave a lasting impression.
- Train and mentor Chef de Parties, Line Chefs, and seasonal staff, fostering a cohesive team.
- Collaborate seamlessly with the front-of-house team, bridging kitchen and service expectations.
- Enforce hygiene, SOPs, and safe working practices, including:
- HACCP compliance
- Strict adherence to food safety legislation
- Stock regulation, including ordering, accepting deliveries, and proper rotation to prevent waste.
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Benefits
Beyond culinary fulfilment, Chester Zoo offers:
- Creative flexibility within a purpose-driven business.
- Gluing the zoo-scape together: Curate seasonal menus for weddings, corporate functions, late openings, and city events (beyond standard operating hours).
- Full-time contract, 40 hours/week, with paid overtime.
- £29,850 per annum
- 33 days annual leave
- A Family Pass for staff, unlocking free visits during off-duty hours.
- Accompany friends/family to exhibitions via staff-denominated ticket discounts.
- Top-tier healthcare policy.
- Staff events and immersive experiences designed to inspire.
- Employer-paid pension scheme.
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Requirements
To submit your application, evidence the following:
- Seasoned culinary craftsmanship in a high-volume setting (e.g. hotels, restaurants, pubs, contract catering).
- Keen food trend awareness adapted to dining and events.
- Stellar customer service to elevate guest satisfaction.
- Confident stock handling skills.
- Minimum Level 2 Food Safety certification.
- COSHH knowledge with real-world application.
- Strong people-management ability (training, team cohesion).
Next Steps
This role embraces connectivity—industry insight, mission alignment, and team interaction. We encourage you to join the kettle-boiling chatter and meet the expert chefs or view our Day-in-the-Life demo (registration open when live).
Early applications are advised as shortlisting may commence during opening periods.
Submit inquiries to recruitment@chesterzoo.org with your CV for the earliest consideration.
Open Conversation: Interested? Chat with Ben Finchett, Executive Head Chef, directly at ben.finchett@chesterzoo.org.
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