Head Chef - Retail

BaxterStorey; London; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading catering company is seeking a Head Chef to lead their culinary team in Central London. The ideal candidate will have substantial experience in high-volume kitchen management, a passion for food, and a track record in delivering exceptional hospitality experiences. The role involves overseeing food safety, managing costs, and mentoring staff, all while providing outstanding service to clients.

Benefits

28 days holiday plus bank holidays

Your birthday off

Food allowance during shifts

Enhanced maternity leave

Training and apprenticeships

Qualifications

• Experience in a similar Head Chef role, preferably in Contract Catering.
• Managing a kitchen serving 3000+ covers daily.
• Ability to control costs and meet gross profit margins.

Responsibilities

• Lead food safety supervision and maintain high food quality standards.
• Support and mentor sous chefs in menu planning and preparation.
• Drive food innovation, concept development, and marketing.

Skills

Organizational skills

Leadership

Passion for hospitality

Job description

We are looking for Head Chef to lead our retail Culinary team at a leading global investment bank in Central London. We seek an individual with a strong passion for the hospitality and food industry, who is collaborative and takes pride in their work. Every interaction offers an opportunity to create a lasting impression, and we want someone who strives to exceed expectations.

Our company is a leader in the catering industry, known for our innovative approach, exceptional service, and authentic culinary offerings. We deliver memorable workplace dining experiences across multiple locations, catering to a diverse clientele. Our team is passionate about food and committed to providing top-notch service.

As part of our team, you will enjoy a supportive and inclusive work environment that encourages growth and celebrates diversity. We invest in your development through ongoing training, ensuring you have the skills and knowledge to succeed, while also supporting your work-life balance to pursue your passion for hospitality and self-care.

Job Description

• Support the Culinary Lead in driving innovation and trends.
• Ensure the smooth and efficient operation of the Retail Kitchen.
• Support and mentor sous chefs, assist in planning, preparation, cooking, and presentation of menus.
• Lead food safety supervision, maintaining high food quality standards.
• Drive food innovation, concept development, marketing, and implementation.
• Manage food production, standards, costs, and menu planning efficiently.
• Provide prompt, efficient service to clients, exceeding expectations.
• Oversee food tastings, presentations, and new menu implementations.
• Enhance the company's reputation for excellent food and service.
• Assist in preparing reports on service analysis and marketing effectiveness.
• Take responsibility for menu costing, working towards and exceeding financial targets.
• Conduct regular 1-1s and appraisals, providing feedback and development recommendations.
• Motivate and train the team through effective induction and on-the-job training.
• Ensure compliance with H&S audits, due diligence records, and statutory requirements.

Qualifications

• Experience in a similar Head Chef role, preferably in Contract Catering.
• Experience managing a kitchen serving 3000+ covers daily.
• Proactive and organized in kitchen operations.
• Experience in client-facing roles and stakeholder communication.
• Ability to control costs and meet gross profit margins.
• Passionate about delivering high-volume, high-quality food.
• Knowledge of Food, Health and Safety legislation.
• Leadership experience with large teams, including kitchen staff.

Additional Information

We have created exceptional spaces, menus, and teams for nearly 20 years, delivering memorable hospitality experiences across various venues. We seek talented individuals to join us and build a proud career in hospitality.

We support your career growth with continuous learning opportunities. Join us and be part of the food revolution!

Benefits include:

• 28 days holiday plus bank holidays, increasing with service
• Your birthday off
• Food allowance during shifts
• Volunteering days, grandparent leave, enhanced maternity leave, and more
• Training, apprenticeships, pension, and discounts
• Wellbeing resources and employee assistance programs

We encourage applications from motivated individuals eager to develop their potential. We are committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion, aiming for a workforce that reflects society and fosters respect and opportunity for all.