We’re proud to be recognised as one of the UK’s Best Workplaces 2026 by Great Place To Work, something that reflects the people, energy and culture we build together every day.
The concept
Just moments from Victoria station, The Idler is a neighbourhood restaurant for whatever the day calls for.
A breakfast spread before sightseeing or a leisurely lunch between meetings. Dinner before the theatre. A cocktail after a long day. Or simply a place to settle in and stay awhile.
The menu is made for sharing, grazing and gathering, with seasonal dishes and plates that suit every occasion. The drinks list follows suit, from a glass of wine at lunch to cocktails and pre-dinner aperitivos that carry the evening a little further.
For guests staying at The July, it's an easy extension of home. For locals, corporate diners and theatre-goers alike, it's a familiar table to return to, punctuated by reliable, efficient and friendly service.
The Job
As Head Chef, you are the culinary leader of the restaurant, responsible for setting the tone, standards and culture within the kitchen. This role requires creativity balanced with structure, strong operational discipline, commercial awareness and the ability to lead a high‑performing team in a quality‑driven environment. Working closely with the General Manager of The July London Victoria, you will play a key role in bringing the food concept to life, supporting seasonal menu development and ensuring every service reflects the quality, consistency and personality of The Idler. Most importantly, you will lead by example, inspire your team, and create an environment where people can thrive and do their best work.
The Head Chef must have
- The motivation and leadership skills to represent The July and its international connections with confidence
- A strong understanding of classic cooking techniques, seasonality and produce‑led menus, combined with the ability to innovate
- Experience developing breakfast, lunch and dinner menus within a structured yet creative concept
- A keen eye for detail to ensure the highest levels of food quality and presentation at all times
- A proven track record of recruiting, developing, motivating and retaining a high‑performing kitchen team
- A confident leadership style with the presence and enthusiasm to run a disciplined, organized kitchen
- Exceptional communication skills, verbal and written, ensuring strong collaboration with front‑of‑house and senior leadership
- The ability to multi‑task and build effective relationships at all levels
- Clear understanding of UK Health and Safety standards, regulations, and compliance requirements
- Strong financial acumen, including food costing, margin control, and menu engineering
- Experience taking full P&L responsibility, managing budgets, forecasting, and driving profitability
Key Accountabilities
- Act as the key leader of the kitchen, driving exceptional food quality, consistency, and brand standards
- Design and implement seasonal menus aligned with the brasserie concept and The July's culinary vision
- Recruit, develop, and lead a motivated, engaged, and highly skilled kitchen team
- Overseeing breakfast, lunch and dinner service, as well as the pastry and food offering for the coffee hatch
- Ensure supply chain processes are effectively implemented and aligned with operational requirements and brand foundations
- Manage food costs and margins in line with agreed targets, maintaining strong stock control and minimising waste
- Maintain efficient kitchen systems, structure, and a positive team culture to support smooth and effective daily operations
- Maintain the highest standards of food hygiene, health and safety, and regulatory compliance at all times.
What’s in it for you?
- In addition to a competitive salary, you are entitled to Tronc (Service Charge)
- 30 days holiday including bank holidays
- Me‑Time/Community Day: Enjoy a dedicated day for self‑care and another day of community engagement
- Medical Cash Plan Scheme to support your everyday healthcare needs
- Free access to our hotel gym and sauna
- Pension scheme from day one
- Group Life Insurance
- Personal Growth: In our company we want to invest in your personal and professional growth by personalized training opportunities, to unleash your professional potential
- Perkbox: Benefits platform where you are able to browse hundreds of different free perks, discounts and vouchers and much more
- Recommend a Friend Scheme: Receive £500 for every successful hire you refer
- Hotel & restaurant perks: Enjoy daily closing drinks, exclusive employee rates for stays at hotels and a Friends & Family Rate, so you can share the joy with your loved ones. Besides our own locations we also offer the "Hotel Employee Rate", where you can explore the world with discount rates for other hotels
- Team drinks, events & outings to (never) forget!
The July is where great stories begin, so come and tell us your story!
Head Chef in City of Westminster employer: The July
At The July, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a vibrant work culture where every team member is valued and encouraged to grow. With comprehensive training provided, even those new to the industry can thrive in our supportive environment, ensuring that you not only contribute to memorable guest experiences but also develop your skills and career in the heart of London.
