Head Chef

Head Chef

Full-Time 58500 - 65000 € / year (est.) No home office possible
The Standard Hotel

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead culinary operations and inspire a talented kitchen team at a vibrant hotel.
  • Company: Join The Standard, a culturally engaged hotel known for its creativity and inclusivity.
  • Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, meals on duty, 28-33 days holiday, and wellness support.
  • Other info: Flexible hours, exciting pop-ups, and opportunities for professional development await you.
  • Why this job: Be part of a dynamic kitchen environment and shape the London culinary scene.
  • Qualifications: Proven experience as Head Chef or Sous Chef in high-level restaurants or lifestyle hotels.

The predicted salary is between 58500 - 65000 € per year.

The Standard is one of the most culturally engaged hotels in the world, with an inclusive spirit and true creative attitude. We are defined by our richness of personality, diversity of background and lifestyle, and are now looking for a talented, experienced and inspiring individual to join our senior Kitchen leadership team as Head Chef.

Your role as Head Chef of our Main Kitchen involves reporting directly to the Executive Chef and leading the execution of all culinary operations. You will supervise the kitchen team as they deliver service across Isla, Double Standard, The Library Lounge, The Rooftop (seasonal), In-Room Dining and Events, and lead our high-profile pop-ups, activations, and guest chef collaborations. This requires an exceptional working knowledge of kitchen operations and a deep appreciation for quality food and the London restaurant scene.

As Head Chef, you are a natural team leader who remains calm during challenging situations and leads from the front. You will motivate, coach and develop your kitchen brigade, fostering a culture of accountability and creativity, while holding yourself and your team to the highest standards.

Kitchen leadership is central to this role, including daily sourcing of ingredients, development and production of dishes, product control, stock management, and food cost oversight, as well as maintaining rigorous food hygiene and health and safety standards.

Essential for this role is strong proven experience as a Head Chef or Sous Chef gained within a similar Lifestyle Hotel or high-level restaurant. In addition to this, you will also need:

  • Prior experience managing and developing a brigade of chefs to deliver the highest quality food
  • A solid understanding of the London culinary scene, emerging trends and competitors
  • Experience across a range of senior management disciplines, with exceptional attention to detail and the ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously
  • To be highly motivated and pro-active; act with professionalism and positivity in all interactions
  • The ability to develop and deliver effective training to maintain consistent service standards throughout your team
  • Full-time availability and flexibility to work Monday-Sunday

All applicants must be eligible to live and work in the UK. Documented evidence of eligibility will be required from candidates prior to commencing employment.

Benefits Include:

  • Meals on Duty
  • Uniform Provided
  • 28 Days Holiday rising to 33 days with service
  • Pension Scheme
  • Life Assurance (2 x Annual Salary)
  • Medical Assistance (including online GP and Physio)
  • Employee Assistance Programme with Well-being service
  • Membership to Headspace Meditation app
  • Discount platform including GYM
  • Worldwide Travel Discounts via The Standard Advantage platform
  • Employee & Family Rates across all Standard and Bunkhouse properties
  • In-house Experience Programme
  • F&B Discounts ranging from 25-50%
  • Recruitment Referral Bonus up to £1,000
  • Tuition Aid Scheme & subsidised training
  • Season Ticket Loan & Bike 2 Work Scheme
  • Social Committee with regular monthly social activities

Head Chef employer: The Standard Hotel

The Standard is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that celebrates diversity and creativity. As Head Chef, you will enjoy a range of benefits including generous holiday allowances, professional development opportunities, and a supportive environment that encourages culinary innovation. Located in the heart of Kings Cross, you'll be part of a dynamic team that thrives on delivering high-quality dining experiences while enjoying perks like travel discounts and wellness programmes.

The Standard Hotel

Contact Detail:

The Standard Hotel Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Head Chef

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with fellow chefs, restaurant owners, and industry professionals. Attend culinary events, workshops, or even local food festivals to make those valuable connections that could lead to your next big opportunity.

Tip Number 2

Show off your skills! Consider hosting a pop-up event or collaborating with local eateries to showcase your culinary creations. This not only builds your portfolio but also gets your name out there in the London food scene.

Tip Number 3

Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job openings to appear. Reach out directly to restaurants or hotels you admire, like The Standard, and express your interest in joining their team. A personal touch can go a long way!

Tip Number 4

Keep your online presence sharp! Update your LinkedIn profile and any culinary social media accounts with your latest achievements and experiences. This helps potential employers see your passion and expertise at a glance.

We think you need these skills to ace Head Chef

Culinary Operations Management
Team Leadership
Ingredient Sourcing
Dish Development
Food Hygiene Standards
Health and Safety Compliance
Stock Management

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Your Passion for Food:When writing your application, let your love for food and cooking shine through. Share your culinary journey and what inspires you in the kitchen. We want to see that you're not just a chef, but someone who truly lives and breathes the culinary arts.

Highlight Your Leadership Skills:As a Head Chef, you'll be leading a team, so make sure to emphasise your experience in managing and developing kitchen staff. Talk about how you've motivated your team in the past and any successful training programmes you've implemented. We’re looking for someone who can inspire others!

Know the London Culinary Scene:Demonstrate your understanding of the London restaurant scene and current food trends in your application. Mention any local influences or experiences that have shaped your culinary style. This shows us that you’re not just a chef, but a part of the vibrant food culture here.

Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, it’s super easy – just follow the prompts and let us know why you’d be a great fit for The Standard!

How to prepare for a job interview at The Standard Hotel

Know Your Culinary Stuff

Make sure you brush up on your culinary knowledge, especially about the London restaurant scene. Be ready to discuss current trends and how they can influence your menu. Show them you’re not just a chef, but a culinary innovator!

Showcase Your Leadership Skills

As a Head Chef, you’ll need to lead a team effectively. Prepare examples of how you've motivated and developed your kitchen brigade in the past. Highlight your ability to remain calm under pressure and how you foster a positive kitchen culture.

Be Ready for Practical Questions

Expect questions that test your problem-solving skills in a busy kitchen environment. Think about scenarios where you had to manage multiple tasks or resolve conflicts. Practise articulating your thought process clearly and confidently.

Demonstrate Your Passion

Let your enthusiasm for food and cooking shine through! Talk about what inspires you in the kitchen and how you keep your creativity flowing. A genuine passion can set you apart from other candidates and show that you’re a great fit for their vibrant culture.