Job Description:

The Akeman Inn is about to begin an exciting new chapter.

As part of a major investment programme across the Acorn Pubs estate, The Akeman Inn will undergo a significant refurbishment and relaunch, emerging almost as a brand-new pub. This is a unique opportunity for an ambitious and talented Head Chef to take the lead from the very beginning and help shape the culinary future of this beautiful business.

Acorn Pubs is part of Brunning & Price, one of the UK's most respected pub operators, renowned for creating exceptional pubs with character, quality food and drink, and outstanding hospitality.

The Akeman Inn enjoys a fantastic location, a stunning setting, and enormous untapped potential. With substantial investment being made in the site, we're looking for a Head Chef who can bring creativity, leadership and passion to the kitchen, build and develop a high-performing team, and establish a food offering that makes the pub a destination venue from day one of the relaunch.

This isn't simply a role leading an existing kitchen—it's an opportunity to create something special. You'll have the chance to influence menus, champion fresh, seasonal ingredients, develop your team, and play a key role in building the reputation and success of the business.

If you're looking for more than just your next Head Chef role—and want the opportunity to leave your mark on an exceptional pub from the very start—we'd love to hear from you.

And there's plenty more in it for you: 

Our Offer

• Package up to £55k including TRONC and profit share 

The Extras  

• We know you work hard so we feed you well - free meals on shift, choose from the menu! 
• 30% discount for you, your friends and family across Acorn Pubs, Brunning & Price and our group including wagamama and selected airport pubs and restaurants.
• It’s never too early to start saving for the future with a NEST pension. 
• Protection for your family with life assurance. 
• Great discounts via Perks on Tap saving you money on everyday purchases and more.
• Cycle to work scheme. 
• Electric vehicle scheme.  
• £1,000 referral bonus for introducing new Managers or Chefs to the company. 
• Wagestream - use flexible pay to choose when to get paid.

Your Wellbeing – it’s important to us! 

• Free 24-hour confidential legal and information helpline for you and your family. 
• Bespoke wellbeing support offering free counselling for all crew. 
• Access to health checks and virtual GP appointments. 
• Discounted gym membership. 
• Plenty of social get togethers – it’s not all work and no play. 
• Recognition platform with regular thankyous. 

We want you to grow with us! 

• Superb internal and external development programmes to support your progress. 
• Advanced Leadership Skills course enhancing self-awareness and soft skills. 
• Regular days out and events around fresh seasonal produce. 
• We encourage movement between our pubs so you can have a long-term career with us. 

About you... 

Our kitchens are dynamic, fast paced, and high volume so you will have experience of being a head chef, chef manager, kitchen manager or senior sous chef in a busy, premium fresh food environment. You will be responsible for the food culture within your pub, working closely with the pub manager to drive the business forward, helping to formulate seasonal menus with our Executive Chefs. We are looking for a confident leader who will nurture their team and create an inclusive and supportive environment. You’ll also need excellent business acumen to manage a well-run kitchen, keeping on top of your stock, GPs and labour controls. 

About Acorn Pubs...

• A collection of 10 pubs, 6 of which have bedrooms.
• Our wider company, Brunning and Price, includes 79 pubs across the country.
• A company with heart, where individuality, personality and diversity are encouraged.
• A company committed to reducing our carbon footprint, working sustainably and supporting our local communities.
• @brunningandpricecareers

Are you ready to be part of a family where you can genuinely contribute to the food culture? Then make your next career move a Head Chef position with us. Apply now!