We’re on the hunt for a hands-on, high volume Head Chef / Kitchen Manager to lead the kitchen at People’s Park Tavern.

This is not your standard pub kitchen role.

We’re a high-volume, fast-paced venue sitting on the edge of Victoria Park, known for big summers, busy weekends, events, and a strong food offer with serious potential. We’re looking for someone from a creative street food or BBQ background who thrives under pressure and knows how to deliver quality at scale.

The Role

You’ll take full ownership of the kitchen — from service and team leadership to menu development and consistency.

You’ll be leading from the front: on the pass, on the grill, in the prep — setting the tone, driving standards, and building a team that can deliver under pressure.

This role is about balancing creativity with commercial awareness — bringing fresh ideas while keeping things tight, efficient and profitable.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead a high-volume kitchen operation, especially during peak summer trade
• Be fully hands-on in service, leading from the front every shift
• Develop and evolve a street food / BBQ-led menu
• Manage food costs, GP and kitchen performance
• Recruit, train and develop a strong kitchen team
• Ensure consistency, speed and quality at all times
• Maintain high standards of food safety and hygiene
• Work closely with management on events and large bookings

What We’re Looking For

• Proven experience as a Head Chef or Kitchen Manager in a busy environment
• Background in street food, BBQ or high-volume casual dining
• A natural leader who thrives in fast-paced, high-pressure services
• Strong understanding of margins, prep efficiency and kitchen systems
• Creative mindset with the ability to deliver ideas that actually work in volume
• Resilient, reliable and ready to commit to evenings and weekends
• Someone who leads from the front and earns respect through action

Bonus Points If You Have

• Experience running outdoor kitchens or festival-style service
• Strong BBQ and grill skills
• Experience with large-scale prep and service systems
• A passion for bold, simple, crowd-pleasing food

Why Join Us?

• Huge platform to put your stamp on the food offering
• Work in one of East London’s busiest and most exciting pubs
• Be part of a team pushing events, music and high-energy service
• Real opportunity to grow with the business

If you’re a grafter, a leader, and a chef who can handle volume without compromising on quality, we want to hear from you.

Apply with your CV and a bit about your food style and experience.