Head Chef : Country Pub, Suffolk

Twentysix Budapest; Hoxne; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A quality-focused village pub in Hoxne is seeking an experienced Head Chef to lead its kitchen. This role involves managing day-to-day kitchen operations while ensuring top food standards and menu planning. The ideal candidate will have proven experience in a similar role, a strong understanding of kitchen costs, and a passion for good food. Join a supportive environment where your input on menus will be valued, alongside a competitive salary and bonus potential.

Benefits

Competitive salary plus bonus potential

Real input into menus

Supportive owners

Stable environment

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Head Chef or strong Sous ready to step up.
• Confident running a pub kitchen.
• Organised, reliable and calm under pressure.

Responsibilities

• Leading the kitchen day‑to‑day and setting food standards.
• Menu planning with a focus on seasonal, well‑priced pub food.
• Managing food GP, stock control, ordering and waste.
• Training, leading and motivating the kitchen team.
• Ensuring food safety, hygiene and compliance standards are met.
• Working collaboratively with front of house to deliver great service.

Skills

Leadership

Menu Planning

Food Safety and Hygiene

Stock Control

Team Management

Job description

Head Chef – The Swan Inn, Hoxne, Suffolk

We’re looking for an experienced and organised Head Chef to lead the kitchen at The Swan Inn, a soon to be re-launched village pub serving quality, seasonal food in a relaxed, welcoming setting.

This role is about consistent, well‑executed pub food, strong kitchen leadership, and running a calm, efficient kitchen. You’ll have the autonomy to shape menus within a clear framework, while working closely with the General Manager and owners. There is an opportunity to push this pub into a premium bracket with the menu.

Key Responsibilities

• Leading the kitchen day‑to‑day and setting food standards
• Menu planning with a focus on seasonal, well‑priced pub food
• Managing food GP, stock control, ordering and waste
• Training, leading and motivating the kitchen team
• Ensuring food safety, hygiene and compliance standards are met
• Working collaboratively with front of house to deliver great service

About You

• Proven experience as a Head Chef or strong Sous ready to step up
• Confident running a pub kitchen
• Organised, reliable and calm under pressure
• Strong understanding of GP control and kitchen costs
• Passionate about good food, consistency and team culture

What We Offer

• A stable, independent village pub
• Supportive, hands‑on owners
• Competitive salary plus bonus potential
• Real input into menus and how the kitchen is run