At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a creative kitchen team, preparing delicious meals for 500+ customers daily.
- Company: Dynamic catering company in Central London with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, personal development, health support, and holiday purchase scheme.
- Other info: Enjoy regular social events and a supportive workplace culture.
- Why this job: Join a vibrant team and showcase your culinary creativity in a fast-paced environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in high-volume catering and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 51500 - 51500 £ per year.
Location: Central London
Salary: £51,500 per annum
Working Pattern: Monday-Friday, 40 hours per week (7am to 3:30pm)
About the Role
We’re looking for an ambitious and creative Catering Head Chef to lead our kitchen team in London. You will oversee a team of 5, preparing food across a salad bar, Grab & Go, hot mains, and a staff restaurant serving an average of 500 covers per day (breakfast and lunch), as well as two pop‑ups per week. The ideal candidate will have solid experience in contract catering, restaurants, or similar high‑volume environments, with a strong background in managing kitchen operations and leading a team.
Key Responsibilities
- Ensure consistency, quality, and presentation of all dishes across daily service and events.
- Maintain strict food hygiene and safety standards (HACCP compliance).
- Conduct regular stock takes, manage inventory, and maintain kitchen equipment.
- Monitor food costs, minimise waste, and control the kitchen budget.
- Liaise with suppliers, place orders, and ensure the quality of delivered products.
- Represent the kitchen during client tastings and presentations.
- Collaborate with management on seasonal menu updates and special events.
- Lead the kitchen team, coaching and supporting staff while ensuring up‑to‑date training and performance feedback.
- Plan and develop menus that delight clients and customers, and manage smooth daily service.
Our Ideal Candidate
- Experience in retail, contract catering, or hotels with banqueting.
- Strong leadership and communication skills.
- A passion for innovation in food and hospitality.
Benefits
- Personal Development and Training opportunities
- Life assurance scheme
- Pension scheme
- Holiday allowance
- Access to Healthcare Support App which includes annual health check, digital GP, mental health consultations, nutritional consultations, second medical opinion
- Eye care
- A great wellbeing strategy – including access to our Employee Assistance Programme, salary finance
- Family friendly support
- Regular social events and communication with our leaders
- A holiday purchase scheme
- Volunteering days
- Professional subscriptions
- Recognition schemes and people awards
- Long service awards
- Access to some great high street discount vouchers
Retail Head Chef (Monday-Friday) employer: Compass Group UK & Ireland
Join our dynamic team as a Retail Head Chef in the heart of Central London, where creativity and culinary excellence thrive. We offer a supportive work culture that prioritises personal development, with ample training opportunities and a comprehensive benefits package including life assurance, healthcare support, and a holiday purchase scheme. Experience a rewarding career in a vibrant environment, leading a passionate kitchen team while enjoying a balanced Monday to Friday schedule.
Contact Details:
Compass Group UK & Ireland Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Retail Head Chef (Monday-Friday)
✨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 Retail Head Chef (Monday-Friday)
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!
