Head Chef In Training in London

The AA School of Architecture seeks an experienced Head Chef to oversee the preparation of fresh meals for the AA restaurant as well as catering for meetings, events, and special functions, upholding the highest levels of health and safety standards and food safety management.

The ideal candidate will have proven experience, a relevant food safety qualification, strong organisational and financial skills, and the ability to adapt to the varied demands of catering in an educational and cultural setting. Flexibility to work evenings or weekends is also required.

A flexible approach is required, with time off in lieu if any overtime is worked. The role offers broad scope for creativity and growth in the culture of a new and evolving food and drinks programme at the AA with an emphasis on seasonality and sustainability. We’re looking for someone who can work within often tight budgets with imagination and culinary ambition to have a significant impact on the quality and success across all of the catering functions at the AA.

Manage the day-to-day of the AA’s kitchen including arranging workloads for the two Kitchen Assistants and Sous Chef. Prepare and serve fresh, healthy and interesting menus for the AA restaurant and special events. Work with the AA Catering Operations Manager to offer a varied and interesting selection of food offerings across all areas of the business. Lead and motivate the kitchen team to maintain the highest standards of food service and cleanliness. Ensure all kitchen activities comply with food safety legislation and internal policies. Maintain up-to-date hygiene and safety records (e.g. Safer Food, HACCP, allergen logs). Ensure the kitchen and catering spaces are clean, safe, and well-maintained at all times.

Catering Management

• Oversee the day-to-day running of the AA Restaurant and AA Bar.
• Collaborate with Ops manager on recruitment for the kitchen.
• Ensure all kitchen activities comply with food safety legislation and internal policies.
• Maintain up-to-date hygiene and safety records (e.g. Safer Food, HACCP, allergen logs).
• Ensure the kitchen and catering spaces are clean, safe, and well-maintained at all times.

Requirements

• Food Safety and Hygiene Level 3 (minimum).
• Experienced as a Head Chef or a Senior Sous chef in a busy catering establishment or operation.
• Excellent knowledge and awareness of all UK food hygiene regulations.
• Experience in writing menus that are healthy, seasonal and interesting.
• A proven ability to train and develop kitchen staff.
• Ability to work flexibly, including occasional evenings or weekends for events.
• Able to be financially aware, and work to financial targets.
• Be a competent user of Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.

We offer a wide range of staff benefits, including up to 40 days’ leave per annum, in addition to Bank Holidays, a defined pension scheme, season ticket loans and access to professional development opportunities. You will also be able to take part and be involved in a creative and unique teaching environment, where the students display their amazing work with various on-site exhibitions, public programmes and lectures.

We are committed to creating an inclusive culture where all members of our community are supported to thrive. Whilst all applicants will be judged on merit alone, we particularly welcome applications from groups currently underrepresented within our working community. Therefore, the appointed candidate will need to be eligible to work in the UK for the duration of their employment with the AA School, in accordance with the Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006.