At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a talented kitchen team to create exceptional dishes for prestigious events.
- Company: Join Levy UK & Ireland, part of Compass Group, a leader in hospitality.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, healthcare, 23 days' leave, and more perks.
- Other info: Flexible hours, dynamic environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Be part of an iconic venue and make a real impact on guest experiences.
- Qualifications: Proven experience as a Head Chef with strong leadership and culinary skills.
The predicted salary is between 55500 - 55500 £ per year.
Head Chef (Meetings and Events) - AELTC Wimbledon, London | Full-Time / Permanent
Up to £55,500 + excellent benefits including healthcare, wellbeing support, 23 days' annual leave plus bank holidays, life assurance, meals on duty, and more.
We're looking for a Head Chef to lead across Meeting and Events catering as part of the talented culinary team at Wimbledon Food & Drink - the official caterer at The All-England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC), one of the world’s most prestigious sporting venues.
This is a rare opportunity to join the culinary team who cater for guests of AELTC.
Best known for The Championships, Wimbledon, the AELTC also hosts a wide variety of meetings and events throughout the year across site, from buffet-style lunches and dinners to formal banquets for 200+ guests.
As Head Chef, you will work closely with the Meetings & Events planning team and Year Round General manager as well as the Culinary Team to prepare, cook, and present food to the highest standards, ensuring a clean, safe, and welcoming kitchen environment.
You will run the day-to-day of the business and support the wider Culinary team, supervising Back of House areas and overseeing Agency Chefs and Kitchen Porters.
During The Championships, you will also play a vital role in supporting operations across one of the catering units, contributing to a diverse range of food offerings during the two-week tournament.
We are Levy
We are a visionary venue partner. We design and deliver bespoke guest experiences that prioritise people and the planet.
Trusted by some of the world's most iconic stadiums, entertainment venues, and major events, from Wimbledon and Twickenham to Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, Edgbaston, the SEC and Excel London, we bring experiences to life with passion and precision.
Our mission is to succeed the right way.
From pioneering tech and seamless operations to show-stopping menus and exceptional service, we use insight and innovation to understand guests, improve the customer journey, reduce environmental impact, and support local communities.
We are a passionate, diverse team of venue specialists dedicated to making the planet better for future generations.
- Meetings & Events Head Chef - The role
- Lead and inspire the kitchen team to deliver exceptional food quality, consistency, and service standards.
- Prepare and oversee high-quality dishes, ensuring excellent presentation, flavour, and full compliance with food safety and allergen regulations.
- Drive seasonal menu development and create innovative recipes that enhance the guest experience.
- Manage stock, ordering, portion control, and waste reduction to maximise efficiency and profitability.
- Take ownership of kitchen operations, stepping up to lead the brigade in the Head Chef's absence.
- Oversee staffing, rotas, and casual workforce management, ensuring smooth kitchen operations and accurate labour control.
- Manage event food costs, budgets, and profit margins while delivering outstanding value and quality.
- Collaborate with senior management to improve culinary operations through innovation and continuous improvement.
- Maintain the highest standards of cleanliness, health & safety, and legal compliance across all kitchen areas.
- Build a positive, high-performing kitchen culture focused on teamwork, development, sustainability, and continuous improvement.
What we're looking for
- Proven experience as a Head Chef or Head of Hospitality within fine dining, luxury hotels, or private members' clubs.
- Strong leadership skills with experience managing and motivating kitchen teams.
- Experience managing budgets, GP, purchasing and stock control.
- Passion for innovation, seasonality, sustainability and reducing food waste.
- Food Hygiene Level 2 minimum (Level 3 desirable).
- Excellent organisational skills with the ability to remain calm under pressure.
- Commercial awareness and commitment to exceptional guest experiences.
- Aware of sustainability and reducing food waste.
- Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, in alignment with the M&E event schedule.
- What you'll get in return
- Competitive salary with bonus and full company benefits
- 23 days' annual leave plus bank holidays, your birthday off, and a holiday purchase scheme
- Healthcare & wellbeing: Aviva Digicare, Medicash (dental, optical, therapy treatments)
- Mental health support: 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme
- Family benefits: Enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption leave. 2 days? additional leave after returning from maternity leave, day off for your baby?s first birthday, enhanced family leave
- Perks & discounts: Shopping, entertainment, and travel discounts, 20% off Nuffield Health and 10% off Pure Gym memberships
- Financial wellbeing: Pension scheme, Life Assurance, preferred rates on salary finance products
- Development opportunities: Professional subscriptions, ongoing training and structured career pathways
- Meals on duty included
Why Join Us?
Levy UK & Ireland is part of Compass Group, the world's largest catering company, and a vibrant leader in hospitality.
We believe in celebrating individuality and building inclusive teams where everyone feels they belong. Our diverse team fuels creativity, innovation, and excellence.
We are proud to be an equal opportunities employer and welcome candidates from all backgrounds to join us in creating a supportive, empowering workplace where everyone can thrive.
Together, we create unforgettable experiences, and shape the future of hospitality.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Head Chef - AELTC Wimbledon, London employer: Chartwells Independent
Join Constellation at Molineux Stadium, where we pride ourselves on creating a vibrant and supportive work environment for our Kitchen Porters. With flexible matchday roles, you'll have the chance to be part of thrilling events while enjoying opportunities for personal growth and development within the Levy UK family. Our commitment to high standards and teamwork ensures that every employee feels valued and integral to our success.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef - AELTC Wimbledon, London
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like Chartwells Independent. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Chartwells Independent
Don't be shy about reaching out to Chartwells Independent directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Head Chef - AELTC Wimbledon, London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about Chartwells Independent and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at Chartwells Independent
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!
