Head Chef
Salary £ 35,100 per annum
SU47, Queensgate Shopping Centre, Peterborough PE1 1NT
Vacancy listed 17/11/2025
Application deadline 26/01/2026
Details
About Korea Foods Company:

Korea Foods Company is a family-owned importer, distributor, and retailer of Korean and other Asian food. We are the largest importer of Korean food in Europe, distribute to 1200 wholesale customers, including the major multiples, and operate 19 retail shops in the UK.

We pride ourselves on working hard, quickly, and we are currently undertaking new expansion plans that will drive the company’s capabilities further.

Position in Organisation

Reports To: Shop Manager

Contract: Permanent, Full-time, Subject to 3-month probation

Hours: 45 hours per week, weekend availability is requried.

***On-the-job training session***

Please note that the post holder is required to attend an on-the-job training session lasting 4 weeks in one of our branch in Central London before starting the role in Peterborough. This is to ensure that the recipes and role requirements align with the company’s standards. The company will provide accommodation and a round-trip ticket for the duration of the training.

Position Overview

The Head Chef leads the culinary team and is responsible for the delivery of consistently excellent dishes across our menu. This role encompasses direct cooking duties as well as the effective management of the kitchen team, ensuring that Korean and Japanese influences are executed with precision while upholding rigorous food safety standards. The Head Chef is accountable for kitchen operations, including staffing, quality control, cost management and communication with other departments. The post holder reports to the Shop Manager and collaborates closely with the Executive Chef on overall culinary direction.

Key ResponsibilitiesCulinary Leadership

•             Oversee day‑to‑day kitchen operations to guarantee timely preparation and presentation of all menu items. Maintain the authenticity of dishes alongside a wider Korean/Japanese offering.

•             Ensure that all recipes, portioning, and plating standards are executed consistently. Collaborate with the Executive Chef on the development and refinement of existing menu items.

•             Coach chefs during service to deliver dishes to specification, adjusting pace and workflow as required to meet service demands.

Food Quality, Safety & HACCP Compliance

•             Champion a culture of food safety by implementing and maintaining a documented Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) plan. Ensure all kitchen processes comply with UK food hygiene legislation and company policies.

•             Monitor the storage, handling and preparation of ingredients to prevent cross‑contamination and ensure accurate allergen management.

•             Uphold cleanliness and organisation throughout the kitchen. Conduct regular hygiene audits and enforce high standards of personal hygiene and equipment sanitisation.

Leadership & Team Effectiveness

•             Lead by example to foster a respectful and supportive working environment. Provide clear direction and constructive feedback to chefs and kitchen assistants.

•             Schedule and allocate tasks to meet business needs, ensuring adequate coverage for peak periods and special events.

•             Mentor and develop team members through on‑the‑job training, coaching and periodic appraisals. Address performance issues promptly and professionally.

•             Maintain open communication with colleagues and managers. Liaise with the Shop Manager and Retail team to coordinate service and manage customer expectations.

Inventory & Waste Control

•             Manage stock levels of fresh ingredients, produce, dry goods and consumables. Implement rotation procedures to minimise waste and ensure product freshness.

•             Ensure correct storage and rotation to maintain freshness, food safety, and product integrity.

•             Monitor ingredient usage and encourage waste-conscious kitchen practices that support cost efficiency and sustainability.

Collaboration & Operational Coordination 

•             Coordinate with manager and retail teams to maintain seamless food production, timely service, and consistent operational standards.

•             Coordinate with the Executive Chef on menu planning, seasonal specials and training initiatives.

•             Participate in functions, promotions and tastings as required, representing the brand with professionalism.

Candidate Profile & Core Competencies

•             Experience: Minimum five years’ experience in kitchen operations, including at least two years as a Sous Chef or Head Chef in a professional restaurant. Demonstrated capability in Korean and/or Japanese cuisine is preferred.

•             Technical Skills: Strong knife skills, expertise in fish filleting, rice preparation and hot kitchen techniques. Comprehensive knowledge of HACCP systems, food safety regulations and allergen management.

•             Leadership & Communication: Proven ability to lead and motivate a diverse team. Excellent communication skills with the confidence to liaise with management and colleagues.

•             Organisation & Resilience: Highly organised and able to prioritise under pressure. Flexible approach to working hours, including evenings, weekends and public holidays.

•             Professionalism: Calm under pressure, detail‑oriented and committed to delivering outstanding food and service.

Benefits

Key benefits but not limited to, include:
· Paid day off on your birthday
· Yearly bonus
· Holiday starting at 28 days plus a personal day rising to 29 days after 5 years (Bank holidays inclusive);
· Pension scheme 3% contributed by the company
· Annual pay review
· 5% discount from Company’s retail stores Seoul Plaza and Cash and Carry

Notes

***IMPORTANT: Please ensure you attach your CV with your application.
If you have any specific questions, please submit an inquiry through the company's website under the recruitment section: https://www.koreafoods.co.uk/contact/
Interviews for suitable candidates will be conducted while the job advertisement is active. Please note that the posting may close earlier than the specified deadline, depending on recruitment progress.

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