Executive Chef in London

Delano is an iconic hotel brand, renowned for its distinctive marriage of sophisticated luxury, bold design, and a touch of glamorous playfulness. Set to open its doors in 2026, Delano London will fuse historic charm with contemporary luxury, creating a distinctive lifestyle destination where design, dining, nightlife and wellbeing seamlessly converge.

We are seeking an exceptional Executive Chef to join the pre-opening team of Delano London. You’ll be responsible for leading the hotel’s culinary strategy, kitchen operations and overall food vision across various outlets, ensuring every experience is distinctive, commercially successful and delivered to the highest standards.

OPERATIONAL MANAGEMENT

• Lead the culinary function through the pre-opening phase, including kitchen mobilisation, recruitment, onboarding, training, SOP development, equipment readiness, supplier set-up, menu testing, tastings, mock services and opening checklists.
• Take overall responsibility for the day-to-day culinary operation across all food offerings.
• Lead the development and delivery of the culinary identity for London, respecting its roots while creating a contemporary Mediterranean-led offer.
• Develop a distinctive food offer that complements the identity of the nightlife destination.
• Create compelling menus and service formats for private dining, hotel events and intimate celebrations.
• Ensure breakfast and in-room dining are delivered with the same level of care and quality as the hotel’s destination outlets.
• Own all menu development, recipe specifications, dish presentation, allergen information, food costings and kitchen operating standards.
• Ensure the highest standards of food safety, hygiene, allergen management, HACCP, health and safety and statutory compliance are maintained.
• Work closely with Engineering and project teams during pre-opening to ensure all kitchen equipment is fit for operation.
• Establish effective preventative maintenance and cleaning routines.
• Identify opportunities to improve quality, creativity, efficiency and profitability.
• Be a member of the hotel crisis and fire teams and be conversant in all related procedures.

TEAM LEADERSHIP & HR SUPPORT

• Build and lead a high-performing culinary team, creating a positive, inclusive and disciplined kitchen culture.
• Oversee and mentor a dynamic culinary team, fostering a collaborative atmosphere.
• Partner with the People & Culture team on workforce planning, recruitment and performance management.

FINANCIAL & ADMINISTRATIVE RESPONSIBILITIES

• Take ownership of the culinary P&L, supporting annual budget planning and managing food cost, labour, productivity and kitchen-related operating expenses.
• Work collaboratively with the Director of Food & Beverage, Finance and Procurement to select suppliers and ingredients.
• Drive sustainability initiatives within the kitchen, focusing on waste reduction and responsible sourcing.
• Maintain robust purchasing, receiving, storage, stock control and inventory processes.

INTERDEPARTMENTAL COORDINATION & GUEST RELATIONS

• Work closely with the Director of Food & Beverage and relevant culinary partners to bring the food vision for Delano London to life.
• Collaborate with Brand Marketing and commercial teams on menu launches and events.
• Be a visible and engaged culinary leader, building relationships with guests and the local food community.

Qualifications

• You are an experienced Executive Chef or senior culinary leader with a strong track record in luxury environments.
• You have experience leading multiple culinary concepts or outlets.
• Previous pre-opening or major restaurant opening experience is advantageous.
• You have a strong understanding of Portuguese and Mediterranean food culture.
• You understand the culinary requirements across various dining services.

APTITUDES / QUALITIES:

• Creatively ambitious but commercially grounded, with expertise in menu engineering and food cost control.
• Strong knowledge of food safety, HACCP, allergen management and UK statutory requirements.
• Natural leader who builds high-performing, empowered teams.
• Able to operate at both strategic and operational levels.
• Strong relationship builder, confident working with leadership teams.
• Culturally aware and globally minded.
• Proficiency in culinary management and inventory systems is desirable.

What’s in it for you…

• The opportunity to launch a visionary hospitality brand in London.
• The chance to develop multiple distinctive food experiences.
• Join a fast-growing international group focused on building a global hospitality brand.
• A creative environment where innovation and excellence are encouraged.
• A competitive package with strong development opportunities.

The employee may also be called upon to carry out ad hoc assignments within the establishment and to respond to any work-related instructions from management.