Head Chef

Host Staffing; Greater London; On-site; GBP 28,888 - 38,572; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible week-to-week roles

Support from account manager

Job summary

Host Staffing is seeking experienced event chefs including Lead Chefs and Head Event Chefs to manage catering for various events in London. You will lead a team, manage kitchen operations, and ensure high standards of food presentation.

The position offers flexibility with work timing, competitive hourly rates ranging from £20.97 to £28.00, and opportunities across multiple events including weddings and festivals.

Immediate start is available for full-time roles throughout the year.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a similar role with an event caterer, production kitchen, luxury hotel, or venue.
• Experience leading chef teams from prep to running a function.
• Availability from June to July or September to December.

Responsibilities

• Manage and control food production and preparation for events.
• Supervise the team of chefs on site.
• Work on and lead events, mainly within London but occasionally outside.

Skills

Leadership

Food production management

Problem-solving

Cool under pressure

Education

Level 3 Food Safety and Allergen Certification

Job description

Job Overview

Experienced event chefs – Lead Chefs, Senior Leads, and Head Event Chefs are needed to support various event caterers in London. The role involves leading teams and running events from start to finish, from job sheet to function. Work includes managing the kitchen, running the pass, ensuring plate presentation and garnishing at the highest level. The position is suitable for chefs who are comfortable leading teams and running events.

Pay Range

£20.97 per hour (£23.50 inclusive of holiday) to £28.00 per hour (£31.38 inclusive of holiday). Rates vary by client, project, and function size. Weekly paid.

Times of Work

• Monday to Friday
• 7:00/8:00 am to 4/5 pm + evening functions
• Some weekends to support functions such as weddings

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and control food production and preparation for events
• Supervise the team of chefs on site
• Work on and lead events, mainly within London but occasionally outside

What We Offer

• Flexible week‑to‑week roles over summer and winter
• Ability to start and stop around other work or commitments
• Work with a range of small to medium or larger caterers
• Occasional bookings with band/tour caterers, festivals or film sets
• Account manager who supports, negotiates rates, and manages diary

Ideal Experience & Requirements

• Proven experience in a similar role with an event caterer, production kitchen, luxury hotel, or venue
• Experience leading chef teams from prep to running a function
• Cool, calm under pressure, and a positive problem‑solving mindset
• Availability from June to July or September to December
• Level 3 Food Safety and Allergen Certification

Other Details

Full‑time employment. Immediate start now and through the year. A driver’s licence is preferable.