head chef

head chef

Full-Time 30000 - 33500 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
Milestones

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead a dynamic kitchen team and create exceptional culinary experiences.
  • Company: Milestones, a well-established Canadian brand with a supportive culture.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, growth opportunities, and a chance to make an impact.
  • Other info: Join us in South London and elevate your culinary career!
  • Why this job: Shape the future of culinary leadership in a fast-paced environment.
  • Qualifications: 5+ years in culinary leadership and a passion for food quality.

The predicted salary is between 30000 - 33500 £ per year.

Milestones South London is looking for an experienced, passionate, and team-focused Head Chef to join our leadership team. We’re seeking someone who leads by example, thrives in a fast-paced environment, and is committed to delivering the exceptional culinary experience Milestones is known for.

About the Role

As the Head Chef, you will oversee all back-of-house operations and play a key role in shaping a positive, high-performing kitchen culture. You’ll ensure consistent execution of Milestones standards, maintain a safe and efficient kitchen, and develop the next generation of culinary leaders.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead, mentor, and develop the kitchen team while fostering a collaborative and professional environment.
  • Oversee daily kitchen operations, ensuring all timing, plating, and quality standards are consistently met.
  • Manage inventory and deciphering A vs T counts, maintain accurate records, and support cost control initiatives.
  • Complete weekly scheduling for the culinary team, balancing labour targets with operational needs.
  • Execute ordering processes, maintain proper stock levels, and minimize waste.
  • Uphold all HACCP, health & safety, and food handling standards; ensure full compliance with regulatory requirements.
  • Drive cleanliness, organization, and safety throughout the kitchen.
  • Work closely with management to improve systems, efficiency, and overall guest satisfaction.
  • Support training, onboarding, and performance management within the BOH team.

Qualifications

  • Minimum 5 years experience in a culinary leadership role (Sous Chef, Kitchen Manager, Head Chef, or equivalent).
  • Strong knowledge of inventory systems, labour management, and ordering procedures.
  • Proven understanding of HACCP and all health & safety regulations.
  • Ability to lead and inspire a diverse team.
  • Excellent communication, organization, and time-management skills.
  • A passion for food quality, consistency, and guest experience.
  • Experience in a full-service, high-volume restaurant environment is an asset.

What We Offer

  • Competitive salary of $60,000-$75,000 depending on experience.
  • A supportive, growth-focused environment within a well-established Canadian brand.
  • Opportunities for development and advancement.
  • A chance to lead a high-performing team and make a meaningful impact on our restaurant’s success.

Location

3169 Wonderland Rd. South, London, ON

Job Type

Full-time

Work Location

In person

Pay

$60,000.00-$75,000.00 per year

head chef employer: Milestones

Milestones is an exceptional employer that prioritises a supportive and growth-focused environment for its culinary team. As the Head Chef in South London, you will have the opportunity to lead a high-performing kitchen, mentor aspiring chefs, and make a significant impact on the restaurant's success while enjoying competitive pay and opportunities for advancement within a well-established Canadian brand.

Milestones

Contact Details:

Milestones Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land head chef

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 Milestones. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!

Reach Out Directly to Milestones

Don't be shy about reaching out to Milestones 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

Culinary Leadership
Team Management
Inventory Management
HACCP Compliance
Health & Safety Regulations
Communication Skills
Organisational Skills

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 Milestones 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 Milestones

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!