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- Tasks: Lead a dynamic kitchen team and create seasonal menus for breakfast, brunch, and events.
- Company: The Pilgrm, a creative and independent hotel brand in London.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 28 days holiday, staff meals, and discounts on food and drinks.
- Other info: Enjoy a supportive culture and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team and make your mark in a vibrant hospitality environment.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef with strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
The Pilgrm is looking for a passionate and experienced Head Chef to lead our kitchen team and oversee our food offering across breakfast, brunch, evening service, and private events. We are looking for someone creative, organised, calm under pressure, and genuinely passionate about hospitality, seasonal food, and leading a team. This is a hands-on role for a chef who enjoys both the operational and creative side of running a kitchen.
The Role
As Head Chef, you will take full ownership of the kitchen operation, ensuring consistently high standards of food, service, cleanliness, and team culture. You will work closely with the management team on menu development, food cost control, GP targets, staffing, and private events. You will lead by example in the kitchen while creating a positive and supportive working environment for the team.
Working Pattern
- 48 hours per week
- 5 days per week
- Ideally Wednesday to Sunday
- Typical shift pattern: 6:30am - 3:00pm
Salary & Benefits
- Competitive salary
- 28 days holiday
- Staff meals on duty
- Staff discounts across food and drinks
- Opportunity to be part of a creative and independent hotel brand
- Supportive and collaborative working environment
Responsibilities
Kitchen & Service
- Lead the day-to-day kitchen operation across breakfast, brunch, evening service, and private events
- Develop seasonal menus and new dishes aligned with The Pilgrm style and guest expectations
- Ensure consistency, quality, and presentation across all food service
- Train, support, and motivate the kitchen team
- Maintain high standards during busy service periods while keeping a calm and organised kitchen
- Work closely with the front-of-house team to ensure smooth and friendly service
Stock, GP & Financial Control
- Take responsibility for kitchen GP and food cost targets
- Manage stock ordering, supplier relationships, and deliveries
- Minimise waste through effective prep, portion control, and stock management
- Monitor labour costs and rota efficiency in line with business levels
- Review monthly P&L reports with management and identify areas for improvement
Private Events
- Oversee the food offering for private events and special occasions
- Create event menus tailored to guest requirements and dietary needs
- Ensure smooth planning and execution of all event catering
- Work closely with FOH and management teams during event service
Health & Safety
- Maintain full compliance with food hygiene, HACCP, and health & safety standards
- Ensure kitchen cleanliness and organisation at all times
- Manage allergen procedures and food safety standards across the kitchen
- Ensure all equipment is used correctly and maintained properly
Team & Culture
- Create a positive, supportive, and professional kitchen culture
- Support team development through training and feedback
- Encourage teamwork and strong communication across departments
- Attend training sessions and contribute to the overall development of the hotel operation
About You
- Previous experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef in a quality-led hospitality environment
- Strong understanding of food cost control, GP, and kitchen financials
- Confident leading a team in a fast-paced environment
- Organised, proactive, and calm under pressure
- Passionate about seasonal food, hospitality, and guest experience
- Excellent understanding of food hygiene, HACCP, and health & safety procedures
Please note: due to the nature of hospitality, flexibility is required and additional duties may occasionally be requested by the management team.
Head Chef in London employer: The Pilgrm Hotel
Contact Detail:
The Pilgrm Hotel Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the hospitality industry, attend local events, and don’t be shy about letting people know you’re on the lookout for a Head Chef role. You never know who might have the perfect opportunity waiting for you!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your culinary skills! If you can, organise a tasting event or pop-up dinner to showcase your seasonal dishes. This not only highlights your creativity but also gives potential employers a taste of what you can bring to their kitchen.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings to appear. Reach out directly to restaurants or hotels you admire, like The Pilgrm, and express your interest in working with them. A personal touch can make all the difference!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got a range of exciting opportunities, and applying directly can give you an edge. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of our team at StudySmarter!
We think you need these skills to ace Head Chef in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your love for food and hospitality shine through. We want to see your enthusiasm for seasonal ingredients and how you can bring creativity to our kitchen at The Pilgrm.
Be Specific About Your Experience: Share concrete examples from your previous roles that highlight your leadership skills and ability to manage a busy kitchen. We’re looking for someone who can handle the heat, so don’t hold back on those stories!
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the values and style of The Pilgrm. Mention how your vision aligns with our approach to food and service, and why you’d be a great fit for our team.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity as Head Chef!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Pilgrm Hotel
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you’re familiar with seasonal ingredients and current food trends. Be ready to discuss how you would develop menus that align with The Pilgrm's style and guest expectations. This shows your passion for food and creativity.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led a kitchen team in the past. Highlight your ability to train, motivate, and create a positive working environment. This is crucial as they’re looking for someone who can maintain high standards while keeping the team engaged.
✨Demonstrate Financial Acumen
Brush up on your knowledge of food cost control and GP targets. Be ready to discuss how you’ve managed stock ordering and supplier relationships effectively. This will show that you understand the business side of running a kitchen, which is key for this role.
✨Stay Calm Under Pressure
Think of scenarios where you’ve had to manage busy service periods. Share how you maintained organisation and calmness during these times. This will reassure them that you can handle the fast-paced environment at The Pilgrm.