At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and innovate culinary operations across multiple luxury restaurants.
- Company: Join a prestigious luxury hospitality group with ambitious growth plans.
- Benefits: Competitive executive package, long-term incentives, and creative freedom.
- Other info: Confidential search for an exceptional culinary leader with a passion for excellence.
- Why this job: Shape the future of British gastronomy and inspire the next generation of chefs.
- Qualifications: Michelin-star experience and proven leadership in high-end culinary environments.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 70000 £ per year.
This isn't a role. It's a legacy.
Smyth & Co has been exclusively retained by one of the UK's most exciting and ambitious luxury hospitality groups to appoint an exceptional Group Executive Chef. We're not looking for a great chef. We're looking for the chef other great chefs aspire to work for. This is a rare opportunity to shape the culinary vision of an expanding collection of award-winning restaurants, working alongside an ownership team that is investing heavily in creating one of the UK's most respected hospitality businesses. Creativity is encouraged, excellence is expected, and mediocrity simply doesn't exist. If you've ever wanted the platform to leave a genuine mark on British gastronomy, this is it.
Who You Are
- You are already operating at the very highest level.
- Perhaps you're an Executive Chef within a multi-Michelin-starred restaurant group, a Culinary Director looking for greater creative freedom, or a Group Executive Chef seeking a business where your influence will genuinely shape the future.
- Your CV will tell a story of exceptional kitchens, world-renowned chefs and uncompromising standards.
- Your reputation will have been built on consistency, innovation and developing outstanding teams not ego.
- Most importantly, you'll be a leader first and a chef second.
- You'll inspire rather than intimidate, nurture talent, build cultures of excellence and create kitchens where people genuinely want to build their careers.
What We're Looking For
- An exceptional Michelin-starred pedigree, with experience at one, two or three Michelin-star level.
- Significant experience leading multiple premium restaurants or luxury hospitality operations.
- A recognised leader with an outstanding reputation within the industry.
- Commercially astute, with a proven ability to balance creativity with profitability.
- A visionary capable of creating concepts that attract both critical acclaim and commercial success.
- Passionate about mentoring and developing the next generation of culinary talent.
- Calm under pressure, highly organised and obsessed with detail.
The Opportunity
This is a strategic leadership position with responsibility for the group's entire culinary operation. You'll oversee multiple Executive Chefs, develop future restaurant concepts, drive menu innovation, establish culinary standards, support new openings and work closely with the board to shape the group's long-term growth strategy. You'll have the freedom to innovate, access to exceptional suppliers and ingredients, and the backing of an ownership team that genuinely believes in investing in culinary excellence. This is a business with serious ambition—and they are seeking a chef capable of matching it.
The Person
Beyond your Michelin credentials, we're looking for someone with humility, presence and charisma. A natural mentor. An exceptional communicator. Someone equally comfortable inspiring a brigade during Saturday night service as they are presenting a new concept to the board. This is a role for someone who wants to build something that will be talked about for years to come.
Package
A highly competitive executive package, long-term incentives and significant creative autonomy will be offered to attract one of the UK's outstanding culinary leaders.
Strictly Confidential | Exclusive Retained Search. This appointment is being managed exclusively by Smyth & Co Luxury Consultants. Due to the confidential nature of this search, further details will be shared with shortlisted candidates following a confidential discussion. Extraordinary Opportunities for Extraordinary Talent.
Group Executive Chef in England employer: Smyth & Co
Join a prestigious luxury hospitality group in the UK, where your culinary vision can truly flourish. With a commitment to excellence and innovation, this company fosters a vibrant work culture that encourages creativity and nurtures talent, providing exceptional growth opportunities for its employees. As a Group Executive Chef, you will not only lead award-winning kitchens but also have the unique chance to shape the future of British gastronomy alongside a dedicated ownership team invested in culinary brilliance.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Group Executive Chef in England
✨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 Smyth & Co. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Smyth & Co
Don't be shy about reaching out to Smyth & Co 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 Group Executive Chef in England
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 Smyth & Co 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 Smyth & Co
✨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!
