At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic kitchen team to create exceptional food for events at ZSL London Zoo.
- Company: Join Benugo, a brand known for superb, natural food and memorable experiences.
- Benefits: Enjoy free lunch, competitive salary, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Inclusive culture with strong support for employee growth and well-being.
- Why this job: Be part of a fast-paced environment where your culinary creativity shines.
- Qualifications: Experienced Head Chef with a passion for high-quality event catering.
The predicted salary is between 52000 - 52000 £ per year.
When we founded Benugo 28 years ago we had a vision of not just creating superb, natural food but of giving London something that was a real experience. This vision is still true today. The Benugo brand stretches from our own award‑winning high street stores to cafes and restaurants within some of the world’s best loved public spaces and visitor attractions. We are looking for an experienced Head Chef to join the Events by Benugo team at ZSL London Zoo.
We Offer:
- Rate: £52,000 per year
- Shifts: 5 days out of 7
- Contract: Full Time
About the Head Chef role:
As Head Chef for Events, you’ll lead the delivery of Benugo’s food vision across a wide range of internal and external events, ensuring consistently high standards across all venues and clients. This is a hands‑on leadership role requiring a deep understanding of large‑scale, high‑quality event catering.
- Plan, organise and lead the kitchen team to deliver exceptional, fresh and seasonal food for events, always maintaining the highest standards of taste and presentation.
- Oversee the end‑to‑end culinary execution of events, ensuring smooth delivery from prep to service.
- Work closely with the Group Executive Chef to develop creative, event‑focused menus that excite clients and guests.
- Take ownership of ordering, supplier relationships and cost control, balancing quality with commercial performance.
- Ensure full compliance with food safety, health & safety and COSHH across all event operations.
- Manage rotas and scheduling in line with the dynamic needs of the events calendar.
- Coach, develop and inspire the team, building strong capability within the events kitchen.
The ideal candidate will be:
- An experienced events Head Chef with a strong background delivering high‑volume, high‑quality events.
- Passionate about creating standout food experiences tailored to a variety of events and audiences.
- Highly organised, with the ability to manage multiple events and priorities simultaneously.
- A confident leader who thrives in a fast‑paced, ever‑changing environment.
- Commercially aware, with a solid understanding of margins, purchasing, labour and food costs.
Benugo has built a culture of inclusivity & progression for all employees. Not only have we retained our family‑feel culture, but we also offer a range of benefits including:
- Free lunch on shift.
- Free tea and coffee at any Benugo location.
- A monthly allowance to use at any Benugo location.
- Competitive rate.
- Life Assurance.
- Enhanced maternity and paternity leave pay for when your family is growing.
- Company sick leave.
- Company annual leave.
- Opportunity to develop and further your career within a fast growing and exciting company with a very prestigious list of clients.
- Employee discounts at several retailers (via Perkboxapp) & fitness providers.
- Access to our Employee Assistance Programme & our trained Mental Health First Aiders.
If this sounds like the role for you, apply now!
Head Chef - Events by Benugo - ZSL London Zoo in City of Westminster employer: WSH Group
Benugo is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises inclusivity and employee progression. As the Head Chef at ZSL London Zoo, you will enjoy competitive pay, generous benefits including free meals and enhanced family leave, and the opportunity to develop your culinary career in a dynamic environment that caters to prestigious events. Join us to create memorable food experiences while being part of a supportive team dedicated to excellence.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Chef - Events by Benugo - ZSL London Zoo in City of Westminster
✨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 WSH Group. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to WSH Group
Don't be shy about reaching out to WSH Group 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 Head Chef - Events by Benugo - ZSL London Zoo in City of Westminster
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 WSH Group 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 WSH Group
✨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!
