19/07/2026
Head Chef – Full‑Time Position
Papa Rab’s Restaurant, Stranraer
Papa Rab’s is a long‑standing favourite in the community, with a restaurant cooking from a beautifully upgraded kitchen complete with a cutting‑edge Rational oven and a custom charcoal grill that opens the door to bold, flavour‑driven cooking and inspires exceptional culinary creativity. We are recognised for delivering brilliant service and consistently high‑quality dishes. We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Head Chef to oversee all kitchen operations and uphold the standards that define our reputation.
Role Overview
The successful candidate will assume full responsibility for the management and performance of the kitchen. This includes leadership of the culinary team, maintenance of food quality and presentation, adherence to hygiene regulations, and effective control of stock and costs. The role requires a professional with strong organisational capabilities and a commitment to excellence in a fast‑paced environment.
Key Responsibilities
▪️Lead, supervise, and develop the kitchen team to ensure consistent performance
▪️Maintain high standards of food preparation, presentation, and service
▪️Manage stock levels, ordering processes, and supplier relationships
▪️Ensure compliance with all food safety, hygiene, and health regulations
▪️Monitor and achieve GP targets, cost control, and waste reduction
▪️Oversee daily kitchen operations, including scheduling and workflow management
▪️Contribute to menu development, seasonal specials, and quality improvements
▪️Foster a positive, efficient, and professional working environment
Candidate Requirements
▪️Proven experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef within a busy, high‑volume establishment
▪️Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate and support a team
▪️Excellent communication and organisational abilities
Thorough understanding of food safety standards and kitchen compliance
▪️Demonstrated ability to work under pressure while maintaining quality and consistency
▪️Competence in stock management, budgeting, and cost control
▪️A professional, reliable, and proactive approach to all aspects of kitchen management
What We Offer
▪️Competitive salary commensurate with experience
▪️You’ll be enrolled in our NEST pension scheme, with employer contributions to help you plan for the future.
▪️A stable, supportive working environment
▪️Opportunities for professional development and creative input
▪️Staff meals and in‑house discounts
▪️The chance to contribute to a respected, community‑focused restaurant
Application Process
Interested candidates are invited to submit their CV and a brief cover letter to [email protected]. Applications will be reviewed promptly, and shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interview
