Creative Sous Chef | Menu Innovation & Mentorship

Heathrow Airport; Greater London; On-site; GBP 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

BaxterStorey is seeking a senior culinary professional to join the Heathrow-based kitchen as a Sous/Executive Chef. You will lead menu development, oversee food prep, maintain high quality, and mentor a busy kitchen team to deliver exceptional service.

You will drive inventory control, cost management and SOP compliance, collaborating with front-of-house to ensure seamless service and a top-tier guest experience in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• NVQ Qualifications or equivalent
• Proven experience as an Executive Head Chef or similar role
• Excellent craft skills background
• Successful progressive background in catering
• Basic and intermediate Food Hygiene certificate
• Strong supervisory experience
• Ability to display a real passion for food and customer service.
• Good numeracy skills
• Proficient at working with computers and programs such as: Microsoft office applications including SharePoint, Forms, OneDrive, Outlook etc.
• Good delegation and influencing skills
• Demonstrate analytical approach to problem solving
• Excellent communicator at all levels
• Ability to plan ahead
• Strong attention to detail and organisational skills

Responsibilities

• Assist the Head Chef in developing innovative menus and ensure an exceptional culinary experience.
• Oversee food preparation and cooking processes to maintain high quality.
• Ensure proper portioning, plating and presentation per SOPs.
• Monitor inventory levels, ensure freshness and minimize waste.
• Provide leadership and guidance to kitchen staff.
• Train, mentor and motivate team members for skill development.
• Manage shifts, labor costs and staffing levels with the Head Chef.
• Collaborate to implement SOPs and standardized processes.
• Monitor food costs through inventory management and portion control.
• Coordinate with front-of-house for seamless service.
• Participate in menu tastings and guest feedback-driven development

Skills

Leadership

Menu development

Food safety

Communication

Team training

Problem solving

Education

NVQ Qualifications or equivalent

Tools

Microsoft Office

SharePoint

Forms

OneDrive

Outlook

Job description

BaxterStorey is seeking a senior culinary professional to join the Heathrow-based kitchen as a Sous/Executive Chef. You will lead menu development, oversee food prep, maintain high quality, and mentor a busy kitchen team to deliver exceptional service.

You will drive inventory control, cost management and SOP compliance, collaborating with front-of-house to ensure seamless service and a top-tier guest experience in a fast-paced environment.