Beaches is a well established seafront restaurant located in the heart of Southend-on-Sea, directly opposite Adventure Island and moments from Southend Pier – one of the most iconic coastal locations in the UK.
With over 40 years of trading history, Beaches has long been a go to destination for locals and tourists alike. Now under new ownership, the business is entering an exciting new phase of growth and transformation.
Our vision is simple but ambitious:
‘to evolve Beaches into a must-visit food destination known not just for its location, but for consistently great food, strong branding, and an exceptional customer experience.’
We are actively investing in:
* Improving food quality, consistency, and presentation across the menu
* Building a stronger, more structured kitchen operation
* Enhancing speed of service while maintaining standards
* Developing the Beaches brand through social media and local reputation
* Creating a menu that drives repeat business, not just footfall
This is a unique opportunity to join at an early stage and play a key role in shaping the future of the business.
The Role
We are looking for an experienced and driven Head Chef to lead the kitchen and help take Beaches to the next level.
This role is not just about running a kitchen, it’s about taking pride in the food created, building a product, a team, and a reputation.
You will be responsible for:
* Delivering consistent, high-quality food in a fast-paced environment
* Improving existing dishes and overall kitchen standards
* Supporting the gradual evolution of the menu and food concept
* Building a reliable, efficient, and motivated kitchen team
Working Pattern & Environment
Typical shifts range from approximately 9–11am starts to 6–9pm finishes (depending on season)
Weekend work is required
Overtime available, particularly during peak summer months
Service style: combination of table service, takeaway, and counter service
Responsible for managing a team of 2–3 chefs
Key Responsibilities
Kitchen Leadership & Operations
Manage and lead a team of 2–3 chefs and kitchen staff
Take ownership of all day-to-day kitchen operations
Create clear structure, roles, and accountability within the kitchen
Ensure smooth service during high-volume trading periods
Train, mentor, and develop junior team members
Implement systems to improve consistency across all dishes
Ensure high standards of food quality, consistency, and presentation
Maintain strong hygiene and food safety standards (EHO compliance)
Menu Development & Food Quality
Maintain and improve the core menu
Focus on improving quality without slowing down service speed
Introduce new menu items and specials over time
Standardise recipes, portion sizes, and plating
Ensure food presentation is consistent and appealing
Contribute ideas for seasonal changes and menu evolution
Stock, Cost & Efficiency Management
Manage stock ordering, rotation, and supplier relationships
Monitor and control food costs to protect margins
Reduce waste and improve overall kitchen efficiency
Ensure accurate portion control across all menu items
Work with ownership on pricing and menu profitability
Maintain clear stock processes and accountability
Maintain tight control over food costs and kitchen efficiency
Compliance & Standards
Ensure full compliance with food hygiene and safety regulations
Maintain a high Food Hygiene Rating (EHO standards)
Implement and manage HACCP procedures
Ensure all kitchen records and checks are completed accurately
Uphold health and safety standards across the kitchen
Brand & Growth Contribution
Contribute ideas to help build the Beaches brand and reputation
Support development of dishes that are visually appealing and shareable
Play a role in improving customer experience through food quality
Work with ownership on new ideas, promotions, and menu direction
Support the creation of “social media worthy” dishes and presentation
Play a key role in transforming Beaches into a recognised local hotspot
Experience Required – What We’re Looking For
5–10+ years’ experience in hospitality kitchens (pubs, casual dining, or fast-paced environments)
Previous experience as a Head Chef or strong Sous Chef ready to step up
Strong background in high-volume, fast-service food operations
Experience with similar menus (fried food, grills, breakfast, casual dining)
Proven ability to manage and develop a small kitchen team
Commercial awareness – understands margins, waste, and efficiency
Hands-on, proactive, and takes ownership
Ideal Candidate Traits
Takes pride in delivering consistent, high-quality food
Strong leadership presence and leads by example
Calm and organised under pressure
Hands-on and willing to get stuck in during busy service
Proactive mindset, identifies problems and solves them
Reliable, disciplined, and standards-driven
Positive attitude and team-focused approach
Why Join Beaches
* Be part of a new ownership journey with clear growth ambitions
* Opportunity to shape the kitchen, menu, and food standards
* Work in one of the best trading locations in Southend-on-Sea
* Join a business with strong existing footfall and huge potential
* Play a key role in building a recognised local brand
* Long-term progression opportunities as the business grows
Salary & Benefits
* Competitive salary (up to £18.50 per hour, based on experience)
* Performance-based incentives linked to kitchen performance
* Opportunity to grow with the business long-term
* Support from ownership to implement ideas and improvements
* Additional hours available throughout summer months
* Free tea/coffee for staff
* Staff discounts on food
If you’re a motivated chef looking to step into a leadership role or take your Head Chef experience to the next level and want to be part of building something, we’d love to hear from you.