Head Chef: Lead Creative Kitchen & Spectacular Events

The Venues Collection; Milton Keynes; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 55,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

23 days holiday + bank holidays

Healthcare and wellbeing support

Birthday off and extra holidays

Employee assistance programme

Job summary

The Venues Collection is seeking a hands-on Head Chef for Kents Hill Park Training and Conference Centre in Milton Keynes. You will lead the kitchen, shape the culinary offer, and drive consistency across breakfast, lunch, dinner and banquets in a busy events environment.

We value creativity, leadership, and a guest-first approach, with a focus on sustainability and excellent food safety standards. Enjoy clear opportunities for career development within Compass Group UK&I.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as Head Chef or senior Sous Chef ready to lead.
• Passion for fresh ingredients and memorable dining experiences.
• Strong track record in quality hospitality and team leadership.

Responsibilities

• Lead the kitchen brigade, inspiring a high-performing team.
• Own the culinary offer, bringing creativity to menus.
• Create visually appealing dishes using fresh ingredients.
• Adapt menus for conferences, meetings, weddings and events.
• Collaborate with GM and leadership to enhance food experience.
• Manage budgets, food costs, labour and waste without sacrificing quality.
• Champion sustainability and ensure food safety standards.

Skills

Leadership

Menu development

Food safety & hygiene

Cost control & budgeting

Team development

High-pressure service

Creativity in cooking

Job description

The Venues Collection is seeking a hands-on Head Chef for Kents Hill Park Training and Conference Centre in Milton Keynes. You will lead the kitchen, shape the culinary offer, and drive consistency across breakfast, lunch, dinner and banquets in a busy events environment.

We value creativity, leadership, and a guest-first approach, with a focus on sustainability and excellent food safety standards. Enjoy clear opportunities for career development within Compass Group UK&I.