Absolute Taste is seeking a dynamic and experienced Head Chef to help lead our exceptional culinary experiences across a portfolio of exciting and high‑profile events. From large-scale Formula One hospitality and prestigious golf championships to private and corporate events, you will be at the forefront of creating unforgettable dining experiences.
If you're a passionate and skilled Chef who thrives in a fast‑paced, creative environment, relishes the opportunity to lead large teams in delivering extraordinary food and service that leave a lasting impression
Hours & Location: Bicester 5 days per week. September – April this is mainly a daytime, weekday position in Bicester. May – August requires working on location, including weekends and evenings at some of the largest sporting events in the country.
Key Responsibilities:
- Culinary lead accountable for a major event, along with smaller events at other times of the year
- Writing and costing of all menus in accordance with food budgets and client brief
- Key client contact from a culinary perspective
- Perform an event leadership role across all culinary functions, providing direction and motivation to all teams
- Full control and accountability for food spend (vs budget) from initial tasting, through to pre-prep, fresh prep and event delivery
- Full control and accountability kitchen labour spend (vs budget) from initial tasting, through to pre-prep, fresh prep and event delivery
- To work alongside the Project Lead and finance department for management of the budget and ongoing forecasting throughout the year
- Responsible for ensuring all chefs are providing best in class hospitality
About You:
- Senior Head Chef experience — proven leadership within large scale events, catering or hospitality
- Team leadership — ability to inspire, motivate and manage large, diverse kitchen teams
- Menu development — exceptional menu writing, creativity and awareness of food trends, dietary needs and sustainability
- Event planning — strong organisational and time‑management skills, including greenfield event delivery and managing complex events
- Cost & budget control — confident managing budgets, costings and food ordering systems
- Procurement & stock control — experience managing suppliers, purchasing and inventory
Why Join Absolute Taste?
Working with us means joning a fast‑growing, innovative company that is redefining culinary and event experiences. You’ll be part of a supportive, resilient team that values creativity, development, and having fun at work.
What you’ll get :
- 25 days holiday + Bank Holidays
- Company Pension Scheme
- Life assurance
- Thorough training and ongoing development
- A positive, empowering culture where your growth matters
We are committed to being an equal opportunities employer.
Who Are Absolute Taste and What Do We Do?
We are an innovative and passionate catering company, dedicated to delivering inspirational food and exceptional culinary experiences. With a commitment to excellence and a passion for pushing boundaries, we continue to grow from strength to strength.
As a small, dynamic team of event professionals, we specialize in creating exciting, well‑managed, and sustainable events, while fostering strong working relationships. We're looking for individuals who share our fun, resilient, and hardworking values to join our supportive, high‑performing team.
This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a highly regarded organisation dedicated to success and a positive, empowering culture.
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Head Chef in Bicester employer: The Menu Partners Ltd
Absolute Taste is an exceptional employer located in the vibrant town of Bicester, Oxfordshire, offering a dynamic work environment where employees can thrive. With a strong emphasis on professional development, you will receive comprehensive training to enhance your payroll knowledge and expand into broader HR responsibilities. The company promotes a flexible work culture, allowing for both full-time and part-time opportunities, ensuring a healthy work-life balance while being part of a supportive and collaborative team.
