Executive Chef: Lead Innovative Menus & Team Growth

Chartwells Independent; Southampton; On-site; GBP 41,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

Chartwells Independent, Southampton, is seeking an Executive Chef to lead a high-quality Eurest catering operation. You will take overall responsibility for the culinary operation from menu development through to service, creating fresh menus that showcase seasonal produce and leading the kitchen team to exceptional standards.

You’ll manage food costs, stock and budgets while ensuring food safety and a standout customer experience.

Qualifications

• Experience as Executive Chef, Head Chef or senior culinary leader.
• Strong menu planning and food cost management skills.
• Ability to lead and develop kitchen staff.
• Organised and calm under pressure; focus on quality and consistency.

Responsibilities

• Taking overall responsibility for the culinary operation, from menu development through to service.
• Creating fresh, exciting and innovative menus that showcase great ingredients and seasonal produce.
• Leading, inspiring and developing the kitchen team to achieve exceptional standards.
• Maintaining high standards of food quality, presentation and service.
• Managing food costs, GP, stock, waste and kitchen budgets.
• Ensuring full compliance with food safety, hygiene and health & safety standards.
• Working closely with the wider management team and client to deliver an outstanding customer experience.
• Driving culinary innovation and continuously looking for ways to improve the food offer.

Skills

Kitchen leadership

Menu planning

Food cost management

Team development

Food safety compliance

Customer experience focus

Job description

Chartwells Independent, Southampton, is seeking an Executive Chef to lead a high-quality Eurest catering operation. You will take overall responsibility for the culinary operation from menu development through to service, creating fresh menus that showcase seasonal produce and leading the kitchen team to exceptional standards.

You’ll manage food costs, stock and budgets while ensuring food safety and a standout customer experience.