Head Chef; Multi-site

We are a family-run UK business operating food and beverage outlets at airports, creating exceptional experiences for all our customers. We are seeking a committed and enthusiastic Head Chef to join our team.

As Head Chef (Multi-site) you will be a reliable, hardworking, and enthusiastic team player, passionate about food and beverages and dedicated to delivering an exceptional dining experience. You’ll play an essential role in the senior management team, overseeing the day-to-day performance of multiple kitchens while maintaining the highest standards of quality, hygiene, and efficiency.

Our values,
Growth, Respect, Innovation, Togetherness (GRIT) are reflected in the behaviours we demand. ARE you;

• Curious, passionate and resilient
• Responsible, hard-working and keen to help others
• Willing to show up, be positive and have FUN!

If so, keep reading.

• Full management and control of multiple kitchens.
• Ensure the department meets revenue and profit targets.
• Enforce company policies relating to health and safety, food hygiene, and food allergens.
• Develop kitchen staff skills across multiple sites to deliver excellent quality food in a timely fashion.
• Ensure confidentiality and act in accordance with data protection requirements when handling personal data.

• Food hygiene certificate
• Significant proven management experience in a kitchen environment, including staff training and development.
• Familiarity with airport-based hospitality is a plus but not essential.
• Demonstrable experience of delivering excellent food preparation services.
• Experience in delivering agreed menus to brand standards.
• Experience with procurement of stock through specified suppliers as needed.
• Proven track record of implementing continuous improvement initiatives.

• Strong communicator with a clear and supportive leadership style.
• Financially aware, with sound budget controls and effective stock management.
• Strong leadership skills, capable of motivating teams in busy kitchen environments.
• Performance management skills to maximise individual potential through coaching.
• In‑depth knowledge of health and safety requirements in a kitchen, including HACCP, COSHH, food allergens, equipment maintenance, and safety practices.

• Resilient and able to deliver results in a fast‑paced environment.
• Results‑oriented and motivated by achieving stretching objectives.
• Committed brand ambassador, driven by service excellence.

• Free meals while on duty at one of our sites
• Health & wellbeing cash plan, also offering discounts and perks across hundreds of retailers
• Access to our Employee Assistance Programme for health and wellbeing support from day one.
• 28 days annual leave (including Bank Holidays), increasing by 1 day a year up to a maximum of 32 days.

All successful candidates will be required to:

Provide proof of their right to work in the UK.

Secure an Airport Security , which we will assist with. The application process requires the production of a valid passport, a criminal record check, and five years of personal and employment references.

If you have the skill and enthusiasm we’re looking for and would like to be part of our team, please apply today!

At ARE Ltd, we recognise the value of diversity and inclusivity in fostering a truly remarkable experience for all our customers. Our commitment extends beyond retail to building a workforce that reflects the wide array of perspectives and experiences found across the UK. We believe that embracing diversity in our teams enables us to provide exceptional service and innovation.

We are dedicated to ensuring all our employees are treated fairly and equitably at work, with a strong commitment to promoting equity in both physical and mental health for everyone. To achieve this, we encourage applications from individuals of disadvantaged socio-economic backgrounds, disabled persons, LGBTQ+ community members, Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic backgrounds, and those with lived experiences of discrimination.

ARE Ltd is committed to providing reasonable adjustments throughout our recruitment process. We strive to be as accommodating as possible to ensure all candidates can participate fully. If you have specific requirements or need adjustments at any stage of the application or interview process, please do not hesitate to get in touch. In your application, feel free to indicate your preferred pronouns (for example – she/her/hers, he/him/his, they/them/theirs, etc.)

to help us better address and respect your identity throughout the process.