At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a talented kitchen team and create innovative seasonal menus.
- Company: Boutique hotel with a stunning rooftop restaurant in Central London.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance bonuses, staff discounts, and wellness perks.
- Other info: Opportunities for professional growth and creative input in a dynamic environment.
- Why this job: Shape the culinary identity of a vibrant rooftop destination with breathtaking views.
- Qualifications: Proven experience as an Executive Chef, strong leadership, and creativity.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 80000 £ per year.
EXECUTIVE CHEF
United Kingdom | Michelin-Starred Restaurant | Exclusive Retained Search
For chefs who refuse to compromise.
Smyth & Co is proud to be exclusively retained by one of the UK's most exciting and highly acclaimed restaurant groups to appoint an exceptional Executive Chef.
This is an opportunity to lead one of the country's most ambitious kitchens, where precision, creativity and excellence are non-negotiable. Working with exceptional ingredients, an outstanding brigade and ownership that genuinely invests in people and quality, you'll have the platform to create something truly remarkable.
This isn't simply about maintaining standards—it's about raising them.
The Chef
We're searching for a chef with an exceptional Michelin pedigree.
You'll have trained and developed within one, two or three Michelin-starred kitchens and will already be operating as either an Executive Chef, Head Chef or Senior Head Chef in a highly regarded fine dining restaurant.
You're a craftsman who obsesses over detail, flavour and consistency. Service is your stage, excellence is your benchmark and developing exceptional people is as important to you as creating exceptional food.
This role requires a leader who inspires through passion, professionalism and example.
What We're Looking For
- Michelin-starred experience is essential and a chef who wants to push for more accolades
- A proven track record leading high-performing fine dining kitchens.
- Outstanding leadership and people management skills.
- A calm, composed presence during service.
- Exceptional knowledge of classical and modern techniques.
- Strong financial awareness, including food cost management, GP, labour planning and menu engineering.
- Experience mentoring and developing ambitious chefs.
- Passion for seasonal produce, innovation and delivering unforgettable guest experiences.
The Opportunity
As Executive Chef, you'll be responsible for every aspect of the culinary operation.
Working closely with ownership and senior leadership, you'll drive menu development, recruit and mentor an exceptional brigade, maintain Michelin-level standards and ensure every guest experience exceeds expectations.
You'll inherit a talented team and a kitchen with genuine ambition, while enjoying the creative freedom and support to continue pushing culinary boundaries.
This is a rare opportunity to join a business where excellence isn't just encouraged—it's expected.
The Individual
Beyond your culinary ability, we're looking for someone with humility, integrity and a genuine passion for hospitality.
A leader who develops people.
A chef who earns respect through actions rather than titles.
Someone who wants to create a lasting legacy while continuing to evolve both personally and professionally.
If you're driven by excellence, inspired by creativity and motivated by building one of the UK's finest culinary teams, we'd love to hear from you.
The Package
A highly competitive salary, performance-related bonus and exceptional long-term career opportunities are available for the right individual.
Strictly Confidential | Exclusive Retained Search
This appointment is being managed exclusively by Smyth & Co Luxury Consultants.
Due to the confidential nature of this retained search, further details will be shared with shortlisted candidates following an initial confidential discussion.
Extraordinary Opportunities for Extraordinary Talent.
Executive Chef in London employer: Smyth & Co
Smyth & Co offers an exceptional work environment in the heart of Mayfair, where creativity and culinary excellence are celebrated. As a Head Chef, you will not only lead a passionate team but also have access to outstanding growth opportunities within a restaurant aiming for Michelin-star recognition. With a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits, this role promises a rewarding career for those looking to make their mark in the culinary world.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Executive Chef in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to fellow chefs, restaurant owners, and industry professionals. Attend culinary events or workshops in London to make connections that could lead to your next big opportunity.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your culinary skills! Consider hosting a pop-up event or a tasting session to showcase your creativity and flair. This not only gets your name out there but also gives potential employers a taste of what you can bring to their kitchen.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on culinary trends! Follow food blogs, social media influencers, and local dining scenes to keep your ideas fresh and relevant. This knowledge will help you stand out during interviews and show your passion for the industry.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in joining our team. Make sure to highlight your leadership experience and innovative ideas in your conversations with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Executive Chef in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Culinary Passion:When crafting your application, let your love for food and cooking shine through. Share your experiences that highlight your creativity and flair in the kitchen, especially if they relate to British or US/Mexican cuisine.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Executive Chef role. Highlight your leadership experience, menu development skills, and any relevant achievements that demonstrate your ability to drive innovation and maintain high standards.
Be Specific About Your Experience:In your application, be specific about your previous roles and responsibilities. Mention how you've managed budgets, supplier relationships, and your approach to training and nurturing culinary talent.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity to shape our rooftop restaurant's culinary identity.
How to prepare for a job interview at Smyth & Co
✨Know Your Culinary Vision
Before the interview, take some time to define your culinary vision and how it aligns with the hotel's ethos. Be ready to discuss how you would develop seasonal menus that reflect both British produce and international flair, showcasing your creativity and understanding of current culinary trends.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led a kitchen team in the past. Think about specific challenges you've faced and how you inspired your brigade to overcome them. Highlight your mentoring approach and how you foster a culture of creativity and excellence within your team.
✨Understand Cost Control
Brush up on your knowledge of food cost management and budgeting. Be prepared to discuss your experience with supplier relationships and how you've effectively managed costs while maintaining high standards of quality and presentation in your dishes.
✨Passion for Local Ingredients
Demonstrate your passion for local, sustainable, and seasonal ingredients during the interview. Share any experiences you've had working with local suppliers or creating dishes that highlight the best of what London has to offer. This will show your commitment to the culinary scene and resonate with the hotel's values.
