Overview
We're an established London catering business entering an exciting new phase of growth.
Following a new management team and refocus, we're investing in our brand, menus, systems and people to build one of London's leading modern catering businesses. We deliver high-quality corporate catering, private events and weddings across the capital, combining exceptional food with outstanding service.
We're looking for an experienced, commercially minded Head Chef with a background in both high-quality London restaurant kitchens and premium catering or events. This is an opportunity to take ownership of our food offering, build a high-performing kitchen team and play a key role in shaping the future of the business.
This isn't simply a kitchen management role. We're looking for someone who wants to build, improve and lead.
Responsibilities
Reporting directly to the Managing Director, you'll have responsibility for every aspect of the kitchen operation.
You'll lead menu development, oversee production, manage the team and ensure every event is delivered to an exceptional standard. You'll also work closely with the leadership team to improve systems, increase efficiency and support the company's long-term growth.
- Lead the day-to-day operation of the kitchen.
- Develop seasonal menus across corporate catering, canapés, bowl food, weddings and private events.
- Create commercially successful menus with strong food cost control and GP performance.
- Maintain consistently high standards of food quality, presentation and execution.
- Recruit, train, mentor and develop the kitchen team.
- Build clear kitchen systems and processes that improve productivity and consistency.
- Plan production efficiently across multiple daily events.
- Manage supplier relationships, purchasing and stock control.
- Minimise waste and maximise profitability.
- Ensure the highest standards of food safety, hygiene and compliance.
- Work collaboratively with the sales and operations teams to deliver exceptional client experiences.
- Contribute to the strategic development of the business and its food offering.
Requirements
You'll be an experienced Head Chef or a strong Senior Sous Chef ready to step into a leadership position.
You'll bring:
- Experience within premium catering, events or high-end hospitality.
- Previous experience working in respected London restaurant kitchens, with a strong understanding of restaurant-quality food and presentation.
- Excellent commercial awareness, including menu engineering, food costing and gross profit management.
- Experience managing, developing and motivating kitchen teams.
- Strong organisational and production planning skills.
- The ability to remain calm and decisive under pressure.
- A passion for seasonal produce and modern cooking.
- Exceptional attention to detail and consistently high standards.
- A proactive approach to improving systems, processes and ways of working.
- A collaborative leadership style with excellent communication skills.
What we offer:
- Competitive salary based on experience.
- Significant autonomy to shape menus and influence the direction of the business.
- A genuine leadership position within a growing company.
- The opportunity to build your own team and kitchen culture.
- Investment in equipment, systems and product development.
- Career progression as the business continues to grow.
- Company pension.
- Staff meals while on shift.
Pay: £50,000.00-£60,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Discounted or free food
- Employee stock purchase plan
- Free parking
- Profit sharing
Application question(s):
- How many years' experience do you have as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef?
- Describe the largest catering event you have led, including guest numbers and your responsibilities.
- Which London restaurants have you worked in?
- What is your experience of menu costing and gross profit management?
- Have you managed weddings and corporate events? Please give examples
- Do you have the right to work in the UK?
- What is your current notice period?
- What are your salary expectations?
Work Location: In person
