Executive Head Chef: Staff Dining & VIP Events Lead

WSH Group; Greater London; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

50% discount across Searcys venues

Pension scheme enrollment

Up to 35 days annual leave

Meals provided on shift

Job summary

Searcys is seeking an Executive Head Chef to lead a dual-focus operation in London, overseeing both staff dining services and high-end hospitality events. You will drive culinary excellence, develop menus, manage a brigade, and ensure the highest standards of food safety and quality across venues.

The role requires a dynamic culinary leader with strong cost control skills, strategic thinking, and a commitment to sustainability.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as an Executive Chef or Senior Head Chef in high-volume, multi-outlet environments.
• Strong background in contemporary staff catering and fine-dining hospitality/events.
• Creative, trend-aware, and passionate about sustainability and seasonality.
• Inspirational leader with excellent communication and organisational skills.
• Experience managing a large team and achieving food cost targets.
• Financial acumen with experience in margins and cost controls.
• Level 3 Food Safety & HACCP (or equivalent).

Responsibilities

• Design and implement creative, on-trend menus across staff dining and hospitality operations.
• Manage and inspire a brigade of chefs and kitchen staff.
• Maintain excellent food quality, presentation, and consistency.
• Work closely with front-of-house and events teams to deliver seamless hospitality experiences.
• Monitor food costs and ensure profitability in line with budget targets.
• Uphold strict health & safety, allergen, and hygiene standards.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement, training, and development.

Skills

Executive Chef experience

Staff kitchen leadership

Cost control & menu engineering

Food safety & HACCP

Sustainability & seasonality

Communication & team development

High-volume multi-outlet experience

Education

Level 3 Food Safety & HACCP

Job description

Searcys is seeking an Executive Head Chef to lead a dual-focus operation in London, overseeing both staff dining services and high-end hospitality events. You will drive culinary excellence, develop menus, manage a brigade, and ensure the highest standards of food safety and quality across venues.

The role requires a dynamic culinary leader with strong cost control skills, strategic thinking, and a commitment to sustainability.