At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire a talented kitchen team to create exceptional dining experiences.
- Company: Join Hilton, the UK's #1 Great Place to Work 2026!
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, free meals, and amazing career growth opportunities.
- Other info: Work in a dynamic environment with a focus on sustainability and innovation.
- Why this job: Be part of a culinary revolution in a prestigious hotel setting.
- Qualifications: Proven experience as a Head Chef or high-performing Sous Chef.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
WELCOME TO A WORLD OF OPPORTUNITIES AT THE UKs #1 GREAT PLACE TO WORK 2026, AS VOTED BY OUR TEAM MEMBERS! Hilton at St Georges Park is entering an exciting new era of culinary delivery, and we are seeking an inspiring, strategic and engaging Executive Head Chef to lead our kitchen operation. This truly unique Hilton property is set in acres of Staffordshire countryside just outside Burton upon Trent. It is proud to be the home of English Football. Alongside this prestigious sporting heritage, the hotel offers the opportunity to build a career with Hilton, the world's leading global hospitality company.
We can offer you:
- Competitive annual salary
- Free and healthy meals when on duty
- Personal Development programmes designed to support you at every step of your career
- Team Member Travel Program: discounted hotel nights plus 50% off Food and Beverages (subject to individual outlets)
- Team Member Referral Program
- High street discounts: with Perks at Work
- Holiday: 28 days including bank holidays (increasing yearly to up to 33 days)
- Discounted dental and health cover
- Free Parking
- Subsidised Taxi Scheme
- Guest Experience Day after successfully passing probation
- Modern and inclusive Team Members areas
As an Executive Head Chef, you will be fully accountable for the overall culinary direction, quality and performance of the hotel's kitchen operation. You will lead, inspire and develop a high-performing Head Chef and kitchen brigade while delivering innovative menus and exceptional dining experiences across all outlets. This role requires a blend of strong people leadership, commercial acumen and hands-on culinary expertise to ensure standards remain consistently high while meeting financial and operational objectives.
Key Responsibilities
- Culinary Leadership & Quality
- Provide clear leadership to the kitchen brigade, driving engagement, development and succession planning
- Deliver creative, market-relevant menus that meet guest expectations and align with Hilton brand standards
- Ensure the consistent production of high-quality food across all hotel outlets, events and functions
- Demonstrate a robust understanding of elite nutrition and wellness
- Regularly review the hotel's offerings in partnership with the Food & Beverage Director, FA nutrition community and Hilton's Food and Drink team to reflect trends and guest feedback
- Operational & Financial Management
- Oversee all aspects of kitchen operations, including planning, forecasting, budgeting and resource management
- Maintain robust food control and waste management systems to protect margins without compromising quality and support our ESG Goals
- Manage departmental financial performance in line with hotel objectives and targets
- Ensure staffing levels and rota planning meet business demands and comply with local legislation
- People Management & Development
- Recruit, train, coach and develop the kitchen team to build a strong, capable and motivated workforce
- Address performance, conduct and capability matters fairly and promptly in line with company policies
- Ensure team members are fully informed on menus, promotions, events and standards
- Lead regular team communication meetings to support engagement and alignment
- Compliance, Safety & Sustainability
- Ensure full compliance with all food safety, allergen management, health and safety, hygiene, security and fire regulations
- Proactively manage maintenance, cleanliness and hazard reporting within kitchen areas
- Promote environmentally responsible working practices and minimise food waste
- Build positive working relationships with suppliers, contractors and internal stakeholders
What We're Looking For
- Proven experience as a Head Chef, or as a high-performing Sous Chef (In a large conference-based property) ready for the next step, within a high-quality hotel or hospitality environment
- Strong leadership capability with the ability to inspire, develop and retain talented teams
- A creative, quality-driven approach to food production
- Solid commercial awareness and experience managing kitchen finances
- Excellent communication, organisation and stakeholder management skills
- Ability to prioritise effectively, manage multiple demands and meet deadlines
- A relevant trade qualification (proof may be required)
- Desirable Management qualification or formal leadership training
- Competence with Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook
At Hilton, It Matters Where You Stay, but The Stay is only one side of the story. We know it takes hundreds of jobs to create unforgettable experiences for our guests and behind every job, there's an extraordinary person working to make each Stay magical. That's why at Hilton, Every Job Makes the Stay.
Executive Head Chef in Worcester employer: Hilton St. George's Park
Hilton at St Georges Park is not just a workplace; it's a vibrant community where culinary excellence meets a supportive and inclusive culture. As the UK's #1 Great Place to Work 2026, we offer competitive salaries, extensive personal development programmes, and unique benefits like discounted travel and high street discounts, all set in the picturesque Staffordshire countryside. Join us to lead a talented kitchen team, create innovative dining experiences, and grow your career with the world's leading global hospitality company.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Executive Head Chef in Worcester
✨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 Hilton St. George's Park. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Hilton St. George's Park
Don't be shy about reaching out to Hilton St. George's Park 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 Executive Head Chef in Worcester
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 Hilton St. George's Park 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 Hilton St. George's Park
✨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!
