Head Chef

AccorHotel; Birmingham; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in the hospitality sector is seeking an experienced Head Chef to oversee a dynamic culinary team in Birmingham. The successful candidate will lead operations for high-volume banqueting, develop a creative menu, and manage costs effectively. A focus on innovation and compliance with food safety standards is essential. Enjoy comprehensive employee benefits, including discounted stays and meals.

Benefits

Staff Meals

30% off food and beverage

Discounted stays at Accor properties

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years’ experience as a Head Chef or Executive Chef.
• Strong knowledge of modern culinary trends and food waste control.
• Certified in food safety and hygiene practices (e.g., HACCP).

Responsibilities

• Lead daily kitchen operations for à la carte dining and banquets.
• Create and update menus ensuring variety, quality, and efficiency.
• Train and develop the kitchen team while ensuring food safety compliance.

Skills

Leadership

Food Safety

Cost Control

Innovation

Education

Culinary degree or equivalent professional certification

Tools

Kitchen management systems

Job description

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Overview:
We are seeking an experienced and creative Head Chef to lead our dynamic culinary team. The ideal candidate will oversee a high-volume banqueting and M&E operation, while also developing an exceptional à la carte menu. This role requires strong leadership, a passion for innovation, and a sharp focus on cost control, food waste reduction, and food safety.

Key Responsibilities:

Lead daily kitchen operations for à la carte dining, banquets, meetings, and large-scale events including Christmas parties and seasonal functions.

Create and update menus for individual guests and group functions, ensuring variety, quality, and efficiency.

Manage food cost, inventory, payroll, and control food waste to maintain profitability and sustainability.

Train, develop, and inspire the kitchen team to achieve high standards.

Ensure compliance with food safety standards and lead internal audits.

Stay ahead of market trends to keep menus fresh, competitive, and aligned with guest expectations.

Collaborate with F&B and event teams to deliver outstanding guest experiences across all outlets and functions.

Job Description

Overview:
We are seeking an experienced and creative Head Chef to lead our dynamic culinary team. The ideal candidate will oversee a high-volume banqueting and M&E operation, while also developing an exceptional à la carte menu. This role requires strong leadership, a passion for innovation, and a sharp focus on cost control, food waste reduction, and food safety.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead daily kitchen operations for à la carte dining, banquets, meetings, and large-scale events including Christmas parties and seasonal functions.

• Create and update menus for individual guests and group functions, ensuring variety, quality, and efficiency.

• Manage food cost, inventory, payroll, and control food waste to maintain profitability and sustainability.

• Train, develop, and inspire the kitchen team to achieve high standards.

• Ensure compliance with food safety standards and lead internal audits.

• Stay ahead of market trends to keep menus fresh, competitive, and aligned with guest expectations.

• Collaborate with F&B and event teams to deliver outstanding guest experiences across all outlets and functions.

Qualifications

Qualifications:

• Culinary degree or equivalent professional certification required.

• Proven experience in a similar role within a high-volume operation, including banqueting, Christmas parties, and à la carte service.

• Minimum 5 years’ experience as a Head Chef or Executive Chef in a high-volume hospitality environment.

• Strong knowledge of modern culinary trends, food waste control, and cost management.

• Up-to-date knowledge of guest expectations and market developments, with a strategic mindset to adapt menus accordingly.

• Excellent leadership, communication, and team development skills.

• Proven ability to manage food safety, hygiene standards, and food waste reduction.

• Certified in food safety and hygiene practices (e.g., HACCP).

• Proficient in kitchen management systems and basic computer skills (e.g., inventory, payroll, costing software).

Additional Information

Why Join Novotel UK?

As part of the Accor group, Novotel UK offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being and professional growth:group.accor.com

• ALL Heartists Program: Enjoy Staff, Family and friend discounted stays at Novotel and other Accor properties worldwide.

• Enjoy 30% off food and beverage at participating UK locations.

• Staff Meals: Enjoy complimentary meals during your shifts.

Join our team and be part of a company that values innovation, quality, and the well-being of its employees.