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We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Industrial/Production Head Chef to lead the daily operations of our new state-of-the-art production kitchen at Avalon Farm. This role will play a pivotal role in shaping and scaling our food manufacturing capabilities. You will be responsible for leading and optimising the production of our three core product groups: Low & Slow Meats, Soups + Braises, and Premium Frozen Ready Meals. With a strong understanding of food production standards and a drive to achieve regulatory excellence, you will be responsible for leading our team through certification processes such as maintaining FSA approval & SALSA accreditation, enabling The Newt to expand into new wholesale opportunities. Reporting directly to the Operations Manager, you will manage a growing production team ensuring effective coordination between Low Care and High Care production areas. The role demands strong leadership, seamless workflow integration, and a hands-on approach to delivering a best-in-class product in both quality and safety.
Job Responsibility
Lead the end-to-end production of our three key product categories: Low & Slow Meats, Soups + Braises, and Premium Frozen Ready Meals
Ensure daily production targets are met while maintaining best-in-class food safety, quality, and consistency
Manage and coordinate operations that flow across both Low Care and High Care environments, enforcing discipline, hygiene, and cross-contamination controls
Oversee and support direct reports: Production Chefs, Kitchen Assistants & Hygiene Operatives
Collaborate with the wider technical and compliance teams to work to maintain FSA approval and SALSA accreditation
Develop and implement manufacturing practices that meet retail and wholesale-ready standards
Drive operational efficiency, workflow optimisation, and effective resource planning
Monitor and report on KPIs including yield, wastage, production output, and team performance
Champion team culture, training, and development within a growing production environment
Collaborate with the wider estate team to utilise our own-reared livestock, estate-grown produce, and integrated systems to produce outstanding food products
Maintain strict adherence to food safety, health & safety, and hygiene protocols
Work closely with internal Product, Product Development, and Technical teams to successfully develop and launch best-in-class products to market
Requirements
Experience in managing or leading a food manufacturing or production kitchen operation
Proven understanding of low care and high care environments, including food safety and cross-contamination control
Experience producing or managing chilled/frozen ready meals, cooked meats, or similar food product lines
Strong leadership and organisational skills, with experience managing cross-functional teams
Familiarity with certification schemes such as SALSA and Identification Marks (FSA)
Passion for high-quality, fresh food made with traceable ingredients
Excellent understanding of production planning, efficiency tracking, and yield control
Resilient, practical, and solutions-focused – ready to grow with an ambitious and high-performing team
What we offer
Complimentary use of our gym and wellbeing classes
Complimentary access to our Spa and swimming pools, and 50% off Spa treatments
Enjoy 30% colleague discount across our shops (on-site and online), with free delivery for all online purchases
Discover exclusive perks with discounted hotel stays and 30% off dining at our estate restaurants
The opportunity to shape the future of the business through our Employee Engine Room
Complimentary garden membership for The Newt and our partner gardens including the Eden Project, Kew Gardens, and The Lost Gardens of Heligan
Complimentary meal on shift, created with estate produce by our dedicated staff food chefs
Recognition for your hard work through our “Newt Awards”, with the opportunity to win amazing prizes, including complimentary hotel stays
Access to our Employee Assistance Programme for yourself and your family
Regular team engagement events, from motivational speakers to go-karting and wine tasting
Up to 30 days of annual leave for full-time colleagues