Head Chef

Compass Group UK; York; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company is seeking a visionary Head Chef for the National Railway Museum in York. This role involves leading a dynamic food operation, creating innovative menus, and maintaining high standards in food quality and safety. Join a team dedicated to exceptional culinary experiences in a unique setting.

Benefits

Competitive salary up to £40,000

Opportunity for continuous training and development

Support from a passionate hospitality team

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef in a high-volume, high-quality environment.
• Strong understanding of health & safety, food hygiene and compliance (including COSHH).
• Exceptional organisational and financial acumen.

Responsibilities

• Lead, inspire and develop a high-performing culinary team.
• Create innovative, on-trend menus that reflect the quality and heritage of the venue.
• Manage kitchen budgets, food costs, and operational efficiencies.

Skills

Leadership

Creativity

Food Innovation

Organisational Skills

Financial Acumen

Job description

Head Chef - National Railway Museum, York
5 days over 7 | Iconic Cultural Venue

Join the team that brings extraordinary dining to life at the UK’s most iconic destinations.

RA Venues is proud to craft exceptional food experiences across the country — from heritage estates and high-end fashion houses to world-famous zoos and museums. Now, we’re looking for a visionary Head Chef to lead our kitchen at the National Railway Museum in York — a venue that blends rich history with modern innovation, and one of the most unique catering settings in the country.

About the Role

As Head Chef, you'll be at the helm of a diverse and dynamic food operation that includes:

• A bustling grab & go café
  
• A vibrant assisted-service bistro
  
• The award-winning Countess of York afternoon tea carriage
  
• A high-profile events and banqueting service for up to 600 guests
  

This is more than a kitchen — it’s a culinary stage. You'll lead with creativity, passion, and precision, designing menus that celebrate fresh ingredients and bold ideas, while overseeing smooth service delivery across all outlets.
What You'll Do

• Lead, inspire and develop a high-performing culinary team
  
• Create innovative, on-trend menus that reflect the quality and heritage of the venue
  
• Maintain exceptional standards in food quality, safety and presentation
  
• Manage kitchen budgets, food costs, and operational efficiencies
  
• Be a hands-on leader with a sharp eye for detail and dedication to service excellence
  

What We’re Looking For

• Proven experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef in a high-volume, high-quality environment
  
• Excellent leadership and communication skills
  
• A genuine passion for food innovation and staying ahead of industry trends
  
• Strong understanding of health & safety, food hygiene and compliance (including COSHH)
  
• Exceptional organisational and financial acumen
  
• A creative flair and drive to deliver memorable food moments
  

What’s in It for You

• A competitive salary up to £40,000
  
• Opportunity to work in a nationally significant venue with varied service styles
  
• Continuous training and development to grow your culinary career
  
• Support from a wider team of passionate hospitality professionals
  
• Be part of a company that celebrates food, people, and place
  

About Us

Part of Compass Group UK&I, Restaurant Associates provides brilliant hospitality through our food, drink and services. We work with our partners and collaborate with our clients to achieve great things together.Every day, our teams of passionate hospitality professionals strive for excellence in delivering employee dining and hospitality to some of the UK's leading workplace as well as inspiring exceptional experiences in iconic cultural and heritage destinations.

Job Reference: com/1905/60031001/52739811/SU #RA Venues

Compass Group UK&I is committed to fostering an environment where every individual can truly be themselves at work and has equal opportunities to advance in their careers. We strive to build a culture that respects and celebrates the unique talents, beliefs, backgrounds, and abilities of all our team members. We want our colleagues to feel valued, empowered to reach their full potential, and to thrive - because diversity is our strength!