At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic culinary team and create innovative menus for exciting events.
- Company: Join Levy, a leader in hospitality at Brentford Gtech Community Stadium.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, healthcare, 23 days' leave, and more perks.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to sustainability and community support.
- Why this job: Make an impact by delivering exceptional dining experiences at high-energy events.
- Qualifications: Proven culinary experience and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 33500 £ per year.
- Head Chef - Brentford, Greater London
- Head Chef - Gtech Community Stadium, Brentford FC | Full-Time / Permanent
60,000 + 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 multifaceted Head Chef to join our passionate and dedicated culinary team at Brentford Gtech Community Stadium, a state-of-the-art conference and events venue and home of Brentford Football Club.
This is an exciting opportunity for a creative Head Chef with exceptional leadership and people development skills to deliver seamless culinary experiences across live football matches, conferences, and exhibitions.
If you're passionate about leading chefs, inspiring teams, and creating innovative menus for diverse, high-energy events, then we want to hear from you!
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.
- Head Chef - the role
- Create and deliver exceptional, event-led menus that exceed guest expectations while catering for dietary needs, cultural preferences, and sustainability goals.
- Lead all kitchen operations, ensuring outstanding food quality, presentation, safety, and hygiene standards.
- Inspire, develop, and mentor a high-performing culinary team, fostering a positive and collaborative culture.
- Partner with event planners and stakeholders to design memorable dining experiences that enhance every event.
- Manage supplier relationships, sourcing premium ingredients while driving value and cost efficiencies.
- Take ownership of budgets, forecasting, cost control, and profitability, ensuring strong commercial performance.
- Stay ahead of culinary trends and innovations, introducing fresh concepts that keep offerings exciting and relevant.
- Champion quality assurance through regular reviews, maintaining consistency and compliance across all operations.
- Coordinate the delivery of culinary operations for match days and events, adapting seamlessly to changing requirements and ensuring flawless execution.
- Drive continuous improvement by identifying opportunities to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and elevate the guest experience.
What we're looking for
- Extensive and proven experience in culinary arts, with a focus on large-scale event catering. Stadium/arena experience is a bonus!
- Exceptional culinary skills with a demonstrated ability to create diverse and innovative menus.
- Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate a diverse culinary team.
- Proven experience in effectively managing kitchen operations, ensuring efficiency, and maintaining high standards.
- Excellent collaboration and communication skills, both verbal and written, to effectively liaise with cross-functional teams, suppliers, and stakeholders.
- Solid financial management skills, including budgeting, cost control, and profitability analysis.
- Ability to negotiate and manage relationships with suppliers to ensure cost-effective ingredient sourcing.
- A strategic thinker with excellent problem solving skills
- Availability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, in alignment with matchday and event schedules.
- Willingness to stay abreast of industry trends, culinary innovations, and emerging technologies.
- Resilience and the ability to thrive in a high-pressure environment.
- Positive and approachable demeanour, fostering a positive team culture.
What you'll get in return
- Competitive salary with discretionary 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: 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.
#Levy
Head Chef - Brentford, Greater London employer: ESS
Chartwells Education is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that prioritises growth and excellence in the education catering sector. With a commitment to employee development and a focus on delivering outstanding food and hospitality experiences, you will find ample opportunities for professional advancement while making a meaningful impact across educational institutions. Join us in a role that not only values your expertise but also fosters a supportive environment for innovation and collaboration.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef - Brentford, Greater 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 ESS. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to ESS
Don't be shy about reaching out to ESS 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 - Brentford, Greater 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 ESS 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 ESS
✨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!
