Head Chef - Kia Oval

Head Chef - Kia Oval

Full-Time 58000 - 58000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
Compass Group PLC

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Create innovative menus and lead a dynamic kitchen team during exciting match days.
  • Company: Join Levy UK & Ireland at the iconic Kia Oval in London.
  • Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, healthcare, 23 days leave, and more perks.
  • Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with excellent career growth opportunities.
  • Why this job: Make culinary magic at high-profile events while leading a passionate team.
  • Qualifications: Experience in high-volume kitchens and strong leadership skills required.

The predicted salary is between 58000 - 58000 £ per year.

Head Chef (Match Day Events) – Kia Oval, London

Full‑time / Permanent | Salary: £58,000 + bonus + excellent benefits including healthcare, wellbeing support, 23 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays, life assurance, meals on duty and more.

Responsibilities

  • Plan and execute the timely delivery of innovative, cost‑effective menus for domestic cricket matches, VIP dining, retail and hospitality areas.
  • Develop exciting, seasonal menus with strong presentation, dietary requirements and sustainability in mind.
  • Oversee kitchen set‑up and breakdown before and after matches.
  • Lead and motivate the kitchen team during high‑pressure match days, including training and managing rotas.
  • Maintain exceptional standards of food quality, taste and presentation.
  • Monitor and report stock levels and control costs to stay within budget.
  • Minimise waste through effective planning and inventory management.
  • Ensure all kitchen operations comply with health and safety regulations, hygiene standards across all areas – conduct regular inspections and due diligence checks.
  • Strive to exceed expectations through exceptional culinary experiences.
  • Address guest feedback promptly and professionally.

Qualifications & Skills

  • Excellent communication and coordination skills – liaison with event management, hospitality teams and suppliers.
  • Strong background in high‑volume or events‑scale kitchens.
  • Proven experience leading large brigades.
  • Calm mindset and customer‑focused approach.
  • Data‑driven decision‑making.
  • Team player with an inclusive leadership style.

Benefits

  • Discretionary bonus.
  • Medicash – Healthcare benefits, including dental, optical and therapy treatments (covers up to 4 dependent children).
  • Aviva Digicare – Free annual healthcare check.
  • Exclusive entertainment, travel and shopping discounts.
  • Employee Assistance Programme.
  • Health & Wellbeing discounts – 20% off Nuffield Health, 10% off Pure Gym.
  • Meals on duty.
  • Pension scheme and Life Assurance.
  • 23 days + bank holidays and an additional day off for your birthday and holiday purchase scheme.
  • Two additional days leave following return from maternity leave during first year back.
  • Competitive and supportive family benefits.
  • Day off for baby's first birthday.
  • Professional subscriptions, ongoing training and development and career pathways.
  • Financial wellbeing programme and preferred rates on salary finance products.

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.

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Compass Group PLC

Contact Details:

Compass Group PLC Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Head Chef - Kia Oval

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 Compass Group PLC. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!

Reach Out Directly to Compass Group PLC

Don't be shy about reaching out to Compass Group PLC 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 - Kia Oval

Menu Planning
Culinary Innovation
Cost Control
Food Presentation
Team Leadership
High-Volume Kitchen Management
Health and Safety Compliance

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 Compass Group PLC 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 Compass Group PLC

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!