Event operations jobs in Royal Tunbridge WellsCreate job alerts

NEW OPENING We're looking for a talented and ambitious Head Chef to open and lead 'Yarrow' Restaurant, a stylish new dining destination from launch. This is a rare opportunity to shape a brand-new kitchen, develop a fresh and exciting menu concept, and build a restaurant culture focused on quality, hospitality, and community. Paramount Place is our exciting new community in the heart of Tunbridge Wells - and at the centre of it will be 'Yarrow'. Open to both residents and the public. Yarrow is a modern British restaurant where thoughtful design meets relaxed comfort and hospitality. This is a full time role working 5 days over 7 - flexibility will be required as some shifts will be to cover evenings and weekends. At Retirement Villages Group, we believe retirement living should be vibrant, connected, and full of opportunity. As Head Chef, you'll oversee all kitchen operations - from menu creation and team leadership to events, food safety, and commercial performance - delivering an exceptional dining experience in a beautiful new setting. Key Responsibilities Culinary Leadership & Menu Development Create seasonal, modern, and high-quality menus using fresh ingredients Develop a dining offer that appeals to both residents and the wider public Lead hospitality and event catering within the village Maintain accurate recipe, allergen, and menu information within procurement and EPoS systems Kitchen Operations & Commercial Management Lead and inspire the kitchen team, setting high standards from day one Manage rotas, ordering, stock control, and monthly stocktakes Deliver strong food margins while maintaining exceptional quality Support efficient and commercially successful kitchen operations Food Safety & Compliance Ensure the highest standards of food hygiene, health & safety, and compliance Conduct regular kitchen and dining area checks Maintain audit records and equipment servicing schedules Team Development & Culture Build a positive, collaborative, and professional kitchen culture Recruit, onboard, and develop kitchen team members Support ongoing training and personal development plans Guest & Resident Experience Create a welcoming and memorable dining experience for residents and public guests alike Engage with feedback to continuously evolve the offering and guest experience About You Essential Level 3 Professional Cookery qualification (or equivalent) Experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef in a quality-led environment Passion for fresh food and excellent hospitality Strong leadership and kitchen management experience Commercial awareness with experience managing budgets and margins Excellent communication and organisational skills Willingness to complete an enhanced DBS check Desirable Experience in hospitality-led restaurant openings Experience within retirement living, hotels, restaurants, or premium hospitality Knowledge of kitchen management systems and Microsoft Office Experience delivering events and function catering What We Offer Competitive salary and benefits package Brand-new restaurant and kitchen facilities Learning and development opportunities The opportunity to launch and shape an exciting new restaurant concept from the very beginning TPBN1_UKCT