Head Chef

Skylark Hospitality; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 68,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious restaurant group in London is searching for an accomplished Head Chef to lead its fine-dining kitchen. This role emphasizes creative autonomy over a seasonal menu, mentoring a skilled team, and ensuring culinary excellence. With at least 3 years of experience in senior kitchen roles, candidates should possess a deep understanding of European cuisine and strong leadership skills. The position offers a competitive salary and the chance to shape the restaurant's culinary identity.

Benefits

Bonus opportunities

Exceptional tools for kitchen innovation

Supportive team culture

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3 years in a senior kitchen leadership role within fine dining or luxury restaurants.
• Deep understanding of European culinary traditions and modern cooking techniques.
• Proven ability to lead, train, and motivate a high-performing team.

Responsibilities

• Lead, inspire, and develop the kitchen brigade to uphold the highest culinary standards.
• Create and execute an exceptional seasonal menu rooted in European techniques.
• Oversee food quality, consistency, and presentation across all services.

Skills

Leadership

Culinary creativity

Organization

Education

Formal culinary training

Job description

Up to 80,000 per Annum + Bonus Opportunities

We are seeking an accomplished Head Chef to lead our client European fine-dining kitchen in London. This role offers creative autonomy over a seasonal, ingredient-driven menu and the opportunity to mentor a skilled brigade in a high-performance, intimate culinary environment. Candidates should bring proven experience in refined European cuisine, strong leadership capabilities, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

Responsibilities

• Lead, inspire, and develop the kitchen brigade to uphold the highest culinary standards
• Create and execute an exceptional seasonal menu rooted in European techniques and premium ingredients
• Oversee food quality, consistency, and presentation across all services
• Manage supplier relationships, sourcing, and cost controls to ensure efficiency and excellence
• Maintain rigorous standards of cleanliness, organization, and kitchen operations
• Collaborate with senior leadership on menu development, new dishes, and guest experience enhancement

Requirements

• Qualifications: Formal culinary training is strongly preferred
• Experience: Minimum of 3 years in a senior kitchen leadership role within fine dining or luxury restaurants
• Knowledge: Deep understanding of European culinary traditions, modern cooking techniques, and premium ingredient sourcing
• Leadership: Proven ability to lead, train, and motivate a high-performing team while maintaining calm and control under pressure
• Personal Traits: Creative, detail-oriented, highly organized, and committed to delivering excellence every day

Why Join the Team?

• Heritage & Prestige: Become part of a celebrated restaurant group known for its commitment to exceptional European cuisine and craftsmanship
• Exceptional Tools: Lead a kitchen equipped for innovation, using the finest seasonal produce and premium suppliers to create standout dishes
• Creative Influence: Shape the restaurant’s culinary identity with full involvement in menu design, seasonal development, and signature dish creation
• Supportive Culture: Join a close-knit, professional team that values respect, precision, and a shared pursuit of excellence

If you are a dedicated and ambitious culinary professional ready to lead a world‑class kitchen, we would be delighted to hear from you.