Head Chef – 50-55k + Bonus – Central London

Ruth Wagstaff Recruitment Ltd; Greater London; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

Ruth Wagstaff Recruitment Ltd is seeking a Head Chef for a premium British restaurant in West London. You will lead a kitchen team of 12-15, shaping menus, standards, and the guest experience in a high-volume setting.

The role focuses on British produce, small plates and events, with a salary of 50-55k plus bonus. Permanent role with career growth within a supportive group and strong operational delivery.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Head Chef in a premium, quality-led restaurant.
• Strong leadership and people management skills.
• Knowledge of systems and SOPs.
• High-volume, fast-paced background.
• Commercially aware with good financial acumen.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the kitchen team of 12-15 chefs.
• Drive consistency, food quality, and service standards.
• Manage ordering, stock control, food safety, and compliance.
• Coach, train, and develop young chefs.
• Work closely with Head of Food and wider group on operational delivery.
• Contribute to menu development and input where welcomed.
• Manage kitchen financials including GP, labour, and wastage.

Skills

Leadership

People management

Menu development

Food safety

Stock control

Job description

Head Chef 50-55k + Bonus
A fantastic opportunity for a Head Chef to join a premium British restaurant in West London, part of a growing group, with a focus on British produce and small plates

The Role

This is a high-volume, fast-paced operation with a focus on British produce. The successful candidate will be responsible for all kitchen operations, team management, menu development, and driving the restaurant towards its full potential. This role would suit a Head Chef with experience in a premium, quality-led environment who enjoys leading and developing chefs.

The Restaurant

• Part of a growing group with support from Head of Food.
• Beautiful design and setting.
• Focus on British produce – small plates, afternoon tea, English sparkling wine.
• Events and private dining.
• High-volume, fast-paced services.

The Head Chef Role

• Lead and manage the kitchen team of 12-15 chefs.
• Drive consistency, food quality, and service standards.
• Manage ordering, stock control, food safety, and compliance.
• Coach, train, and develop young chefs.
• Knowledge of stems and SOPs.
• Work closely with the Head of Food and wider group on operational delivery.
• Contribute to menu development where input is welcome.
• Manage kitchen financials including GP, labour, and wastage.

The Ideal Head Chef

• Proven experience as a Head Chef in a premium, quality-led restaurant.
• Strong leadership and people management skills.
• Knowledge of systems and SOPs.
• High-volume, fast-paced background.
• Commercially aware with good financial acumen.
• Passion for British produce and seasonality.
• Calm, organised, and thrives in a fast-paced environment.

Job Tenure: Permanent