At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic culinary team and create unforgettable dining experiences.
- Company: Join The Londoner, London's first ‘Super Boutique’ hotel in Leicester Square.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, 28 days holiday, and complimentary meals daily.
- Other info: Opportunities for promotion and access to training programs for your development.
- Why this job: Be part of a passionate team that values creativity and excellence in food.
- Qualifications: 5+ years experience as an Executive Chef with strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
Welcome to The Londoner, a hotel that is chic boutique in spirit and feeling yet staggering in scale and ambition. Situated in the heart of Leicester Square, we are seeking hospitality professionals whose unique talents and ambitions will drive them to not only rise to our guests' exacting standards but also propel their own career potential in a company that recognises and rewards.
We are currently seeking an experienced Executive Chef who thrives in a purpose-led environment and is a confident, inspiring leader with the vision and talent to create distinctive and memorable dishes.
The Role
- Have full responsibility for the strategic and operational leadership of all kitchen operations at The Londoner Hotel.
- Drive innovation and ensure consistently outstanding food quality across restaurants, bars, in‑room dining, meetings, events, and VIP experiences.
- Uphold the highest luxury and brand standards.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead, inspire, and develop a large, multi‑disciplinary culinary team across all outlets.
- Define and deliver the hotel’s culinary strategy in line with brand positioning and commercial objectives.
- Ensure exceptional food quality, presentation, and consistency across all dining experiences.
- Maintain rigorous standards of food safety, hygiene, and health & safety compliance.
- Manage kitchen budgets, cost controls, GP margins, and supplier relationships.
- Collaborate closely with senior leadership, F&B, Sales, and Events teams.
- Support high‑profile events, VIP functions, and bespoke guest experiences.
- Champion talent development, succession planning, and a positive kitchen culture.
- Ensure sustainability, responsible sourcing, and waste reduction practices are embedded.
About You
You are passionate about food and bring a minimum of 5 years experience in a similar role. As an Executive Chef, you possess extensive knowledge of culinary operations, demonstrate strong leadership skills, and have a proven track record of delivering exceptional guest and team experiences while maintaining strong financial performance. You are an excellent communicator, both verbally and in writing, and bring a creative, driven, and positive approach to your work. Flexible and adaptable, you are comfortable meeting the demands of a dynamic 24‑hour operation.
Company Benefits
- Competitive salary.
- 28 days Holiday per annum including Bank Holidays increasing with long service.
- Complimentary hot meals, salad bar and unlimited beverages provided daily.
- Recommend a Friend Scheme of up to £500 per friend recommended.
- Annual complimentary night stays within our hotels.
- Preferential accommodation rates for all Edwardian Hotels for Hosts, their family and their friends.
- Access to a discount platform for all of the most popular stores and outlets.
- Auto enrolment into our company pension scheme.
- Regular social events across all hotels.
- Annual company recognition events held in January each year.
- Wellbeing champions across all of our hotels.
- Access to our company doctor for medical appointments and occupational health support.
- Access for all hosts to our online learning platform Edwardian Academy.
- Opportunities for promotion and a wide range of training programs to support your development.
Eligibility
In line with the requirements of the Asylum & Immigration Act 1996, all applicants must be eligible to live and work in the UK. Documented evidence of eligibility will be required from candidates as part of the recruitment process.
Executive Head Chef employer: The Londoner Hotel
The Londoner is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises the wellbeing and development of its team members. As part of London's first 'Super Boutique' hotel, you will enjoy competitive benefits, including generous holiday allowances, complimentary meals, and opportunities for professional growth within a passionate culinary environment. Join us in the heart of Leicester Square, where your creativity and leadership will be celebrated and rewarded.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Executive 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 The Londoner Hotel. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to The Londoner Hotel
Don't be shy about reaching out to The Londoner Hotel 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 Executive Head Chef
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 The Londoner Hotel 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 The Londoner Hotel
✨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!