Head Chef

Little & Large Hospitality Limited; England; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A local hospitality company in South East London is searching for a Head Chef to lead a committed kitchen team. The role involves designing seasonal menus, ensuring food quality, and managing cost controls in a vibrant pub atmosphere. Ideal candidates will possess experience in a busy kitchen and a passion for British food. Competitive salary and bonus potential are offered in a supportive environment with opportunities for growth.

Benefits

Competitive pay

Bonus potential

Healthy work-life culture

Opportunities for future growth

Qualifications

• Ideally experience in a high-quality pub or bistro environment.
• Hands-on, creative approach to cooking.
• Collaborative, low-ego attitude crucial.

Responsibilities

• Lead and inspire a kitchen team.
• Design and deliver seasonal menus.
• Maintain food quality, consistency, and presentation.
• Manage cost controls and supplier relations.
• Ensure kitchen safety and hygiene standards.

Skills

Proven experience running a busy kitchen

Passion for seasonal British food

Strong organisational skills

Leadership skills

Understanding of balancing quality with profitability

Job description

Head Chef – The Talbot, Brockley

Full-time | Competitive salary + bonus | South East London

The Talbot is a much-loved neighbourhood pub in the heart of Brockley, known for its warm atmosphere, great drinks, and quality food served with generosity and flair. We’re now looking for a Head Chef to lead our kitchen and help shape the next chapter of our food story.

About the Role

We’re developing a simple, seasonal, and ingredient-led dining concept for our upstairs dining room. Downstairs, the pub menu remains approachable and vibrant : proper bar snacks, hearty plates, and classic Sunday roasts.

As Head Chef, you’ll :

Lead and inspire a small, committed kitchen team

Design and deliver menus that reflect the seasons and the spirit of The Talbot

Maintain excellent food quality, consistency, and presentation

Manage cost controls, stock, and supplier relationships

Ensure kitchen standards of safety, hygiene, and organisation are exemplary

Work closely with the management- team to create a memorable, community-driven dining experience

About You

You’ll be a hands-on, creative chef with :

Proven experience running a busy kitchen — ideally in a high-quality pub or bistro environment

A passion for seasonal British food and a collaborative, low-ego attitude

Strong organisational and leadership skills

An understanding of balancing quality with profitability

The desire to be part of a growing, community-focused venue

Why Join Us

A chance to put your stamp on a new food concept in a respected local pub

Supportive ownership and management who value creativity and balance

Competitive pay, bonus potential, and a healthy work-life culture

Opportunities for future growth within an evolving business

If you’re ready to bring your passion and ideas to one of South East London’s best-loved pubs, we’d love to hear from you.