Head Chef – Billericay, Essex – £19.25 per hour (temp) → up to £50,000 (perm)

If you’re a Head Chef who wants to take real ownership of a kitchen, build a team around you, and shape how things are done, this role gives you that opportunity. This isn’t a role where you just follow a set menu and step back; you’ll be leading the operation day to day, setting standards, and making the kitchen your own.

You’ll start on a full-time temporary basis, working closely with the business owner to understand how their events run, before moving into a permanent Head Chef position after 12 weeks if it’s the right fit both ways. The progression is clear. Come in, take control, and grow with the business.

This Head Chef role is based at a luxury events venue in Billericay. The kitchen supports weddings, private events, and functions, with a mix of structured prep days and high-energy event service. Over time, there’s scope for this Head Chef role to grow beyond one site, supporting events across Essex and London as the business expands.

What the role looks like day to day

As Head Chef, you’ll be leading from the front. You’ll run the kitchen across prep and service, organise your team for events, and make sure everything leaving the pass is consistent and delivered on time. You’ll also take responsibility for standards, allergens, and how the kitchen operates overall. This is a role where your input shapes the outcome.

What we’re looking for

You’ll need solid experience as a Head Chef or be a strong Senior Sous Chef ready to step into your first Head Chef role. You should be comfortable running services, leading teams, and managing the pace of event-led kitchens.

A minimum Level 2 Food Safety & Allergens certificate is required, with Level 3 preferred. If needed, this can be arranged. Due to the venue location, you’ll also need your own transport.

The hours and rhythm of the role

The week is a mix of structure and events. Typically, 2–3 days will be daytime prep shifts (around 09:00–17:00), giving you time to organise, plan, and set up. The rest of the week is driven by events; evenings, later finishes, and busy services.

You’ll get at least one full weekend off per month. Some weeks are lighter and prep-focused, others are more intense with multiple events - it’s a balance that comes with event work.

Pay and progression

During the initial 12-week temporary period, the rate is £19.25 per hour, with holiday pay accrued separately in line with UK regulations. This gives you consistent weekly pay while you settle into the role.

After this period, there is a clear pathway into a permanent Head Chef position, offering up to £50,000 basic salary, with paid overtime after 50 hours.

Why this Head Chef role stands out

This Head Chef role offers a genuine opportunity to take ownership of a kitchen and grow with the business. You’re not stepping into a fixed structure; you’re helping shape it.

Alongside that, you’ll receive:

Weekly pay every Friday during the temporary period
Hourly pay is £19.25
Holiday pay is accrued separately
A dedicated consultant at Appetite4Work
Flexible hours with shift picking where applicable
Access to an easy-to-use support app

This is an immediate start role; however, the client is happy to wait for the right person.