Kitchen jobs in United Kingdom

Head Chef- National Theatre London

£60,000 per annum (£45k Basic + £15k TRONC)

NT Food & Drink is a unique and dynamic partnership driven by Levy and KERB, embedded within the National Theatre on the South Bank. Our ambition to create a world-class hospitality destination at the heart of the world's most iconic theatre is powered by our progressive people-first approach, centred on environmental and social sustainability. We celebrate inclusivity with purpose, putting the development and progression of our future leader’s centre stage. Our shared goal is to ensure all food and drink spaces support the NT's overall values, vision, and culture.

Purpose

We’re looking for a talented Head Chef to lead our kitchen operations and deliver exceptional venue dining experiences. Reporting to the Executive Chef, you’ll oversee daily kitchen operations, ensuring top-quality food preparation, seamless event execution, and strict adherence to food safety standards. You’ll manage inventory, train and inspire your team, and collaborate with front-of-house staff to maintain excellence in service. Creativity and precision are key, as you drive menu innovation while ensuring consistency. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment and have a passion for delivering outstanding cuisine, we’d love to hear from you.

Specific Responsibilities:

• Exceptional Execution: Plan menus, manage the culinary team, and ensure high standards for all diners.
• Team Coordination: Organize and lead the culinary team, covering senior responsibilities when needed.
• Quality Control: Work with the Executive Chef to maintain consistency, presentation, and attention to detail.
• Stock & Inventory: Manage stock levels, place orders, and conduct regular stock counts.
• Health & Safety: Ensure compliance with food safety regulations, conduct audits, and brief dietary requirements.
• Training & Development: Lead training, oversee inductions, and provide necessary information for staff.
• Equipment & Logistics: Maintain kitchen equipment, liaise with logistics teams, and oversee stock transfers.
• Communication & Documentation: Work closely with FOH teams, attend meetings, and provide necessary HSE documentation.

Requirements

• Strong Leadership- You’re a confident and mature leader with a strong presence, excelling in stakeholder management and interpersonal skills to build strong relationships at all levels.
• Adaptability & Agility - Thrives in a fast-paced environment, effortlessly juggling multiple events with 200+ guests. You’re open to adjusting working patterns when needed to meet business demands.
• People-First Mentality - You inspire, coach, and mentor your team, aligning them with the company’s vision, values, and strategy to foster growth and development.
• Change Champion - You don’t just embrace change—you lead it. You’re an innovator, working with key stakeholders to drive improvements and empower your team.
• Meticulous & Organised - Your attention to detail ensures smooth operations. You plan ahead, follow processes, and make sure every team member has what they need to deliver a flawless experience.
• Safety-First Mindset - You lead by example, prioritizing health, safety, and best practices across the department to create a secure and compliant workplace.
• Business-Savvy - You manage stock, minimize waste, and optimize staffing levels to align with business needs, keeping operations efficient and cost-effective.

Benefits

• Healthcare & Wellbeing - Medicash health benefits (including dental, mental health & optical for you and up to 4 children), free annual health check with Aviva Digicare, discounts at Nuffield Health & Pure Gym, and access to our Employee Assistance Programme.
• Exclusive Perks & Discounts - Save on entertainment (up to 55% off cinema tickets), shopping (up to 15% off), Vodafone plans, and travel with top providers such as TUI & Expedia.
• Workplace Benefits - Meals on duty, pension scheme, life assurance, and professional subscriptions paid.
• Leave & Family Support - 23 days + bank holidays, your birthday off, extra leave after maternity return, a day off for your baby’s 1st birthday, and a holiday purchase scheme.
• Career & Financial Support - Ongoing training & development, career pathways, financial wellbeing programme, and preferred rates on salary finance products.
• Exclusive National Theatre discounts (15% off outlets, 25% off Bookshop, complimentary show tickets)
• Food & drink discounts (Kerb Card: 50% off drinks, 20% off food at Seven Dials Market)
• VIP last-minute O2 show tickets (subject to availability)
• Discounted onsite parking (£4/day)

Who are Levy?

Levy, part of Compass Group, known for delivering exceptional food, drink, and hospitality experiences at world-renowned venues such as Wimbledon, Twickenham, and Tottenham Hotspur. Focused on sustainability, diversity, and inclusion, Levy prides itself on using sustainably sourced ingredients and providing outstanding service. The company is committed to achieving Net Zero by 2027, partnering with the British Paralympic Association, and ensuring all team members earn at least the Real Living Wage or London Living Wage.

Why Join Us?

At Levy UK & Ireland, we celebrate diversity and foster inclusion, valuing every individual’s unique strengths. Our diverse team fuels creativity, innovation, and success. We promote fairness, ensure all voices are heard, and provide equal opportunities for all.

We welcome candidates from all backgrounds to join us in creating a supportive, equitable workplace where everyone can thrive and contribute. Together, we achieve greatness.