Head Chef

Sodexo; Hounslow; On-site; GBP 38,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading hospitality services provider is seeking a creative Head Chef to lead culinary operations at United Lounges, Heathrow Airport. You will oversee food production, collaborate on menu innovations, and manage a diverse kitchen team while ensuring excellence in service and food safety. The ideal candidate will have experience in high-volume operations, excellent organisational skills, and a passion for exceptional guest experiences.

Benefits

24/7 mental health support

Employee Assistance Programme

Health and wellbeing app

Discounts Scheme

Financial wellbeing tools

Learning and development opportunities

Cycle to Work Scheme

Flexible work environment

Qualifications

• Experienced Head Chef with a flair for innovation.
• Background in premium or high-volume operations, ideally in hospitality or lounges.
• Proven leadership abilities in a diverse kitchen team.

Responsibilities

• Lead food production and service for United Lounges at Heathrow.
• Collaborate on menu innovation and concept launches.
• Oversee kitchen operations and staff performance.

Skills

Multi-cuisine experience

Leadership and team development

Organisational skills

Menu costing skills

Food Safety Level 3

Adaptability in a fast-paced environment

Education

IOSH Managing Safely certification

Job description

Head Chef

• United Lounges Heathrow Airport TW6 1EW
• up to £45,000pa + excellent bonus and benefits package
• 40hrs pw 5/7
• extra paid day off for your birthday
• Airport Security Clearance will be required

Job Introduction

At Sodexo Live!, we create exceptional experiences in extraordinary places. From world-class sporting events to exclusive airport lounges, we're proud to craft memorable moments through service, innovation, and passion for excellence.

Our Aviation team partners with leading global airlines to elevate the passenger experience, turning every journey into something special. Now, we're looking for a creative and inspiring Head Chef to join our team at the United Lounges, Heathrow Airport.

As Head Chef, you'll lead the culinary direction across our Business Class and Arrivals Lounges, ensuring every dish reflects the high standards our guests expect. You'll be hands‑on in the kitchen while driving innovation, coaching your team, and shaping the next evolution of our premium food offering.

You’ll work closely with our Executive and Development Chefs to design exciting, seasonal menus that celebrate fresh ingredients and international flavours – all while maintaining excellence in food safety, consistency, and presentation.

If you're an inspiring culinary leader who thrives on delivering exceptional experiences, we'd love to hear from you.

What You’ll Do:

• Lead all aspects of food production and service for the United Lounges at Heathrow.
• Collaborate with the Executive Chef and Development Chef on menu innovation and new concept launches.
• Oversee kitchen operations, staff training, and performance management.
• Ensure compliance with HACCP, food safety, and company health & safety standards.
• Manage costing, stock control, and GP targets to meet financial objectives.
• Build strong relationships with clients, suppliers, and internal stakeholders.
• Drive continuous improvement, sustainability, and creativity across the food offer.
• Inspire and develop your culinary team to deliver excellence every day.

What You Bring:

• A passionate, experienced Head Chef with a flair for innovation and a love of hospitality.
• Strong background in multi‑cuisine, premium or high‑volume operations – ideally within hospitality, lounges, or 5* environments.
• Proven ability to lead, motivate, and develop a diverse kitchen team.
• Excellent organisational, financial, and menu costing skills.
• Food Safety Level 3 (or higher) and IOSH Managing Safely certification.
• A calm and adaptable approach, thriving in a fast‑paced environment.
• Above all – a genuine passion for food, service, and creating exceptional guest experiences.

Why Join Sodexo Live!

Working with us means being part of something bigger. You'll belong to a team that values authenticity, purpose, and growth. We offer:

• 24/7 access to mental health and wellbeing support.
• Employee Assistance Programme for legal, financial, and personal advice.
• A free health and wellbeing app with rewards and virtual GP access.
• Discounts Scheme and cashback card – also available to friends and family.
• Financial wellbeing tools via the Salary Finance Platform.
• Retirement Plan and Death‑in‑Service benefit.
• Learning and development opportunities to grow your career.
• Cycle to Work Scheme and volunteering opportunities.
• A flexible, dynamic work environment where you can thrive.

Ready to Make an Impact?

Apply now and be part of a team that brings energy, excellence, and unforgettable experiences to life.

We may close this advert early if we receive a high volume of applications.

We're proud to be an inclusive, forces‑friendly, and Disability Confident Leader employer. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and experiences.