At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a culinary team to create exceptional match day dining experiences at Kia Oval.
- Company: Join the iconic Kia Oval, a premier cricket venue in London.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, healthcare, generous leave, and exciting perks.
- Other info: Great career growth opportunities and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team delivering world-class hospitality during thrilling cricket matches.
- 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
£58,000 + bonus and 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 the culinary team in delivering exceptional hospitality experiences during domestic cricket match days at the iconic international cricket ground, The Kia Oval.
As Match Day Head Chef you will oversee all kitchen operations, manage staff, and ensure that menus meet the highest standards of quality, presentation, and cost control.
This culinary leadership role requires strong mentoring skills, creativity, and operational excellence to deliver world‑class service for all guests visiting the Kia Oval Cricket Ground.
The role
- Plan and execute the timely delivery of innovative, cost‑effective menus for domestic cricket matches, VIP dining, retail and hospitality areas.
- Oversee kitchen setup 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 and hygiene standards across all areas.
- Strive to exceed expectations through exceptional culinary experiences.
- Address guest feedback promptly and professionally.
- What we’re looking for
- Excellent communication and coordination skills – liaise with event management, hospitality teams and suppliers, and bring suggestions to improve operations.
- A strong background in high‑volume or event‑scale kitchens.
- Proven experience leading large brigades.
- A calm mindset and customer‑focused approach.
- Data‑driven decision‑making.
- A team player with an inclusive leadership style.
- What you’ll get in return
- Discretionary bonus.
- Medicash – Healthcare benefits, including dental, optical and therapy treatments (includes up to 4 dependent children).
- Aviva Digicare – Free annual healthcare check.
- Exclusive entertainment, travel, and shopping discounts.
- Employee Assistance Programme.
- Health & Wellbeing discounts – Discounts for Nuffield Health (20%) and Pure Gym (10%).
- Meals on duty.
- Pension scheme and Life Assurance.
- 23 days + bank holidays and additional day off for your birthday and holiday purchase scheme.
- 2 days additional 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 & development and career pathways.
- Financial wellbeing programme and preferred rates on salary finance products.
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Contact Details:
Compass Group UK & Ireland Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef - Kia Oval in 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 Compass Group UK & Ireland. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Compass Group UK & Ireland
Don't be shy about reaching out to Compass Group UK & Ireland 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 in 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 Compass Group UK & Ireland 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 UK & Ireland
✨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!
