Executive Head Chef Job, Luxury Events Catering, London
An exciting opportunity has arisen for an exceptional Executive Head Chef to lead a world-class events catering operation. This is a rare leadership role suited to a dynamic culinary professional with experience managing large-scale, high-end catering, who is ready to shape the future of an award-winning business known for excellence and innovation in hospitality.
As Executive Head Chef, you will work closely with the Culinary Director to shape strategic growth, oversee all kitchen operations, and inspire a talented brigade to deliver consistently outstanding food for premium events. Your role blends high-level operational oversight with innovation, creativity, and people leadership.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Team Culture
Lead and manage all departments within the events kitchen
Inspire, train, and develop chefs at all levels through clear direction and regular feedback
Represent the company values and ensure high standards of conduct and collaboration
Menu Development & Innovation
Create seasonal menus and bespoke concepts in collaboration with internal teams and external consultants
Oversee all costings, allergen documentation, and recipe accuracy
Stay ahead of culinary trends, with research into London’s top dining concepts
Identify and onboard niche talent and chefs to enhance world cuisine offerings
Operational Excellence
Lead logistics planning for all events to ensure flawless execution
Ensure SOPs are up-to-date and implemented across the kitchen
Monitor stock, wastage, supplier relationships, and financial targets
Prepare detailed reports for directors on event performance, financials, and operations
Health, Safety & Compliance
Ensure compliance with all hygiene and health & safety legislation
Oversee and improve HACCP procedures and allergen management
Maintain a 5-star food hygiene rating and deliver successful EHO audits
People Management
Lead the recruitment and onboarding of both permanent and freelance chefs
Deliver appraisals, monitor wellbeing, and promote a positive kitchen culture
Handle HR matters in collaboration with the People team
Strategy & Growth
Contribute to leadership strategy and quarterly business planning
Align culinary operations with broader commercial goals
Develop and implement succession planning for future talent
Contract Oversight
Support contract catering accounts with menu development and compliance audits
Assist in onboarding new senior chefs and contract staff
Financial Performance
Deliver target GP (56% Kitchen GP / 80% Food GP)
Collaborate on annual budgeting, capex, and equipment planning
Performance Measures
Client and guest satisfaction
Food GP achievement
Compliance with labour and cost targets
Hygiene ratings and audit outcomes
Retention and development of the kitchen team
What’s in It for You?
Profit Share Bonus Scheme
Holiday allowance that grows with tenure
Free daily staff meals
Comprehensive health & wellbeing support
25% discount on in-house services
Employee Assistance Programme
Life Assurance & Pension Scheme
Flexible salary finance options
Discounted gym memberships, UK hotel stays, and partner schemes
Professional development, online learning & career progression
Exciting social and wellness events
Generous referral bonuses
And more!
Position: Full-Time | Senior Leadership Role
Salary: £75,000 - £80,000 plus Profit Share Bonus and Exceptional Benefits