Head Chef

Head Chef

Cardiff Full-Time 65000 - 91000 Β£ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead a high-end kitchen, creating exceptional dishes and mentoring a talented team.
  • Company: Join one of the UK's most prestigious hospitality brands, known for excellence.
  • Benefits: Enjoy a Β£65,000 salary, relocation support, performance bonuses, and dining discounts.
  • Why this job: Be at the forefront of the UK dining scene in a dynamic, creative environment.
  • Qualifications: Must have proven experience as a Head Chef in high-volume restaurants.
  • Other info: This is a unique opportunity to shape culinary trends and lead a passionate team.

The predicted salary is between 65000 - 91000 Β£ per year.

Smyth & Co. is proud to represent one of the UK’s most distinguished hospitality names in their search for a visionary Head Chef to lead the kitchen of a truly iconic venue. This is not your average kitchen. Serving 200–250 covers daily, this site demands creativity, calm under pressure, and a dedication to culinary excellence. From beautifully crafted plates to flawlessly executed service – every detail must reflect the highest of standards.

We're looking for a leader, not just a cook. A dynamic spirit who thrives in high-volume, premium environments and has the ambition to drive a brigade to new heights.

The Role:
  • Take ownership of the kitchen – from menus to margins
  • Lead, mentor, and inspire a large team in a fast-paced, high-end setting
  • Deliver exceptional quality at scale, without compromising creativity or precision
  • Work hand-in-hand with senior leadership to keep the kitchen ahead of trend and always service-ready
  • Ensure immaculate kitchen standards, compliance, and team culture
You Bring:
  • Proven Head Chef experience in high-volume, premium restaurants (200+ covers)
  • A big personality – confident, dynamic, and cool under pressure
  • A passion for bold flavours, modern presentation, and innovation
  • Strong financial acumen and understanding of kitchen operations at scale
  • Natural leadership and an ability to develop and retain top talent
What’s on Offer:
  • Β£65,000 basic salary
  • Full relocation support
  • Exceptional company benefits including performance bonus, dining discounts, and more
  • The chance to lead in one of the most talked-about restaurants in the UK
  • Real career progression within a forward-thinking, supportive group

For chefs who want to be at the forefront of the UK dining scene – this is your moment. Apply exclusively with Smyth & Co. – the trusted name in luxury hospitality recruitment.

Head Chef employer: Smyth & Co

Join a prestigious hospitality group that values creativity, excellence, and leadership in the culinary arts. As Head Chef at this elite dining destination, you will enjoy a competitive salary of Β£65,000, comprehensive relocation support, and exceptional benefits, all while working in a dynamic environment that fosters professional growth and innovation. This is your opportunity to lead a talented team and make a significant impact in one of the UK's most renowned restaurants, where your culinary vision can truly shine.
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Contact Detail:

Smyth & Co Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🀫

We think this is how you could land Head Chef

✨Tip Number 1

Network with other chefs and industry professionals to get insights into the restaurant's culture and expectations. Attend culinary events or workshops where you can meet people connected to the venue.

✨Tip Number 2

Showcase your leadership skills by sharing examples of how you've successfully managed a kitchen team in high-pressure situations. Be prepared to discuss specific challenges you've overcome and how you inspired your team.

✨Tip Number 3

Stay updated on current culinary trends and innovations, especially those relevant to high-end dining. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your passion for modern presentation and bold flavours during interviews.

✨Tip Number 4

Prepare to discuss your financial acumen in detail. Be ready to explain how you've managed kitchen operations at scale, including menu pricing, cost control, and maximising profit margins while maintaining quality.

We think you need these skills to ace Head Chef

Culinary Expertise
Leadership Skills
Creativity
Calm Under Pressure
Menu Development
Financial Acumen
Team Management
High-Volume Cooking
Attention to Detail
Quality Control
Trend Awareness
Communication Skills
Time Management
Problem-Solving Skills

Some tips for your application 🫑

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in high-volume, premium restaurants. Emphasise your leadership skills and any achievements that demonstrate your ability to manage a large team effectively.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for culinary excellence and innovation. Mention specific examples of how you've driven a kitchen to success and how you align with the values of the restaurant.

Showcase Your Creativity: If possible, include a portfolio of your work or a menu you’ve created. This will give the hiring team a taste of your creativity and style, which is crucial for a Head Chef role.

Highlight Financial Acumen: Since the role requires strong financial understanding, be sure to mention any relevant experience you have with budgeting, cost control, and managing kitchen operations at scale.

How to prepare for a job interview at Smyth & Co

✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills

As a Head Chef, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead and inspire a team. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed a kitchen brigade in the past, focusing on mentorship and team development.

✨Highlight Your Culinary Creativity

This role demands creativity, so be ready to discuss your approach to menu creation and how you incorporate bold flavours and modern presentation. Bring along a portfolio of your best dishes to impress the interviewers.

✨Demonstrate Financial Acumen

Understanding kitchen operations at scale is crucial. Be prepared to discuss your experience with budgeting, cost control, and how you've maximised profitability while maintaining quality in high-volume settings.

✨Prepare for High-Pressure Scenarios

Given the fast-paced environment, expect questions about how you handle stress and maintain composure during busy service times. Share specific instances where you've thrived under pressure and ensured exceptional service.

Head Chef
Smyth & Co
Location: Cardiff
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