Head of Culinary

Sodexo; London; On-site; GBP 200,000 +; Full time

Job summary

A leading food services company in London is seeking a Head of Culinary to oversee culinary operations and develop unique dining experiences. You will lead multi-kitchen operations, manage budgets, and ensure exceptional culinary standards. The ideal candidate has extensive experience in large-scale operations and a strong background in menu development. Competitive salary with additional benefits.

Benefits

Car allowance

Flex benefits fund

Bonus

Qualifications

• Experience in multi-unit large-scale operations including Michelin-star contexts.
• Proven ability to manage large teams across a variety of culinary concepts.
• Strong financial acumen with a track record in revenue generation.

Responsibilities

• Lead the culinary vision and develop seasonal menus across all outlets.
• Ensure operational excellence and manage budget control.
• Recruit, coach and inspire teams while ensuring quality assurance.

Skills

Culinary leadership

Menu development

Budgeting

Team management

Food safety

Education

Higher education in culinary arts

Certifications in food safety

Job description

Overview

Job Title: Head of Culinary
Location: Fulham Pier, London
Salary: Competitive + Car Allowance, Flex Benefits Fund and Bonus
Work hours: 40 per week; 5/7 pattern

Positioned on the Thames and nestled by parkland, Fulham Pier is a unique destination in South-West London open morning, noon, and night. The Head of Culinary will ensure an exceptional culinary offering that makes every visit a memorable experience and contribute to the community-focused dining destination.

Responsibilities

• Strategic Culinary Leadership: Lead the culinary vision and seasonal/signature menus across all outlets, grounded in guest insight, trends and brand.
• Operational Excellence: Set standards and KPIs for a multi-kitchen operation; ensure consistent prep, presentation and service; leverage kitchen technology to boost productivity.
• Financial Stewardship: Own budgets, control food and labour costs, and lead procurement to deliver quality at the right margin.
• Team Development & Leadership: Recruit, coach and inspire large teams; deliver training, scheduling, performance reviews and succession planning.
• Quality Assurance & Compliance: Uphold HACCP and hygiene excellence; conduct audits and act quickly on issues, leading incident response when needed.
• Cross-Departmental Collaboration: Work with Marketing, Events, Supply Chain and HR to create cohesive, commercial culinary experiences.
• Customer Experience & Innovation: Engage with guests/VIPs; pilot new concepts and drive continuous improvement from feedback.
• Sustainability & Ethical Practices: Champion waste reduction, ethical sourcing and energy efficiency; track and report progress against site goals.
• Note: For a complete list of responsibilities, refer to the attached job description.

The Ideal Candidate

• Renowned culinary leader with experience in multi-unit and large-scale operations, including managing culinary operations in high-end or Michelin-star contexts.
• Extensive menu development expertise and proven ability to manage large teams across a variety of concepts, from casual to premium.
• Strong financial acumen with a track record in budgeting, cost control, and revenue generation.
• Strategic thinker who integrates culinary excellence with operational efficiency and strong leadership.
• Higher education in culinary arts or related field, with additional certifications in food safety and business management.
• Strong understanding of global cuisines and contemporary techniques, with high standards for fine dining.

At Sodexo Live!, we are experience makers and food fanatics. We value personality, backgrounds, and a desire to delight others. We are Disability Confident Leader employer and operate a Disability Confident interview scheme for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria.

Benefits & Diversity

Disability Confidence: We’re committed to changing attitudes toward disability and ensuring disabled people have the chance to fulfil their aspirations.

Contact Details

Sodexo
Tel: [phone]
Contact: Mary Chukelu
Email: [e-mail]