Head Chef

Head Chef


Company
KIBOU Restaurants
Location
Birmingham
Salary
£50k–£55k a year
Posted
10 days ago
Via
via Kibou Careers

Job Description
At KIBOU, we’re looking for an exceptional Head Chef to be part of the opening of a new restaurant in Central Birmingham this summer.

Leading up to the opening, you'll have your input into the design and layout of the kitchen and the opportunity to build your kitchen team culture from day one.

KIBOU is an independent Japanese restaurant and bar with restaurants in Battersea, Cheltenham, Bristol, Solihull, Oxford and Cambridge.

Our kitchens deliver a diverse menu showcasing a variety of Japanese cuisine, all handmade or hand-rolled fresh in the kitchen daily and our stringent sourcing policy ensures that we only ever use the freshest, best quality and most authentic ingredients, so our guests can enjoy a premium dining experience with each visit.

Each KIBOU has a dedicated sushi kitchen offering an extensive selection of handmade-to-order sushi and sashimi.

Your role will be to manage the day-to-day running of the kitchen operations and the team, with motivation and commitment to deliver outstanding service. To lead the kitchen team from the front to create a fun, authentic and original dining experience that will support our core values.

At KIBOU, we’re looking for incredible individuals to come on a journey with us, helping to grow our small family of restaurants whilst delivering exceptional food and service to all of our guests. Being part of a small growing business, you’ll have the opportunity to work on menu development, bringing your own ideas to the table and helping us grow our offering.

Experience, Qualifications and Skills we need:
• Experience in Japanese cuisine preferred but not essential
• Ability to recruit, train and develop effective and passionate teams
• Proven track record of delivering sales growth through consistent food quality and service
• Effective labour cost management
• Track record of delivering budgeted food margins
• Flare for creative and authentic menu development
• Experience in running large teams of chefs
• Ensure legal compliance and health & safety are managed as required

KIBOU are a considerate and respectful employer, and we place team wellbeing at the heart of our operation.

We love our people and are thrilled to be growing our team!

Why work with us :
• A business with our people at its core, valuing individuals as much as the team
• A restaurant-led organisation that champions operational autonomy and the freedom to thrive, with opportunities to shape how the business evolves and grows.
• Personalised training programmes and development opportunities tailored to you
• 100% equal and transparent service charge policy
• Japanese culture & cuisine 101. Get to know Japanese food!
• Regular socials, including the annual KIBOU awards show and summer party
• Employee discounts when you dine in any of our restaurants
• Free meals cooked by your chefs, or generously discounted menu items on shift
• Professional confidential support with the wellness programme, Licensed Trade Charity
• Financial well-being with Hastee
• Enhanced Pension provision through Salary Exchange
• Recognised as being one of the Top 30 Best Places to Work in Hospitality 2025, by The Caterer

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about Security Guard Jobs

Q What exact hourly rate must employers pay security guards on night shifts in the United Kingdom from April 2026?
As per GOV.UK, the National Living Wage for workers aged 21 and over is £12.75 per hour from 1 April 2026. Security guards on night shifts between 11pm and 6am must receive this rate plus any contractual shift premium. Employers cannot pay less even on zero-hour contracts.
Q Do I need an SIA licence to work as a security guard in the United Kingdom and what is the 2026 application fee?
As per GOV.UK, all security guards must hold a valid SIA licence before starting work. The front-line licence application fee is £228 for a three-year licence in 2026. Applicants must complete a Level 2 qualification and pass an identity check.
Q How many hours can a security guard legally work per week in the United Kingdom including overtime in 2026?
As per GOV.UK, the maximum average working week is 48 hours over a 17-week reference period. Security guards can opt out of the 48-hour limit but must still receive 5.6 weeks of paid annual leave. Overtime must be paid at least at the National Living Wage rate.
Q What tax code and personal allowance apply to security guard wages in the United Kingdom for the 2026/27 tax year?
As per HMRC, the personal allowance for 2026/27 is £12,570 with tax code 1257L for most employees. Security guards earning under £50,270 pay 20% income tax on earnings above the allowance. National Insurance is deducted at 8% above £12,570.
View all 7 FAQs