Job Description

About the Job:

As Head Chef you will play a pivotal role in the success and elevated hospitality experience of our Wallacea Living community in Marylebone. This role ensures the seamless delivery of exceptional dining services that enhance lifestyle, wellbeing, and the overall sense of place for our owners.


Culinary excellence is central to both our customer experience and the businesss strategic vision. From beautifully plated meals in vibrant dining spaces to bespoke in-home dining services, every detail contributes to the quality of life our owners enjoy.


As Head Chef, you will be responsible for:

Curating and delivering a high quality, nutritionally balanced, and visually attractive dining experience, tailored to individual tastes and preferences. Championing culinary creativity and wellness through innovative, seasonal menus that reflect Wallacea Livings commitment to quality and care. Leading and developing a high-performing food and beverage team that embodies professionalism, warmth, and attention to detail in every service. Overseeing all aspects of kitchen operations with a focus on efficiency, food safety, sustainability, and cost control. Collaborating with the wider team to align culinary services with Wallacea Livings mission of redefining luxury retirement living.

Key Responsibilities:

Culinary Leadership & Menu Development

Curate and deliver diverse, balanced, menus tailored to owner needs and lifestyle expectations. Incorporate seasonal produce, local sourcing, and sustainable practices to deliver innovative and wellness-focused cuisine. Lead the creation of exceptional owner events and bespoke dining experiences, including wine-paired dinners and private occasions.

Dining Experience & Brand Alignment

Uphold and exemplify Wallacea Livings premium service ethos in all aspects of food quality, presentation, and service delivery. Ensure the dining experience consistently reflects the atmosphere and service style of a luxury hotel or private members club. Establish a welcoming and hospitable culture, ensuring the kitchen and front-of-house teams collaborate seamlessly.

Operational & Financial Oversight

Manage all aspects of food production, procurement, stock control, and cost management to deliver outstanding value without compromise on quality. Ensure strict compliance with HACCP, food safety, hygiene, and health & safety regulations, maintaining full documentation and readiness for inspection. Maintain accurate financial and operational records, including daily reconciliation, supplier management, and invoice processing. Profit & Loss accountability. Manage the stock to agreed targets.

Team Leadership & Development

Recruit, train, and manage a high-performing culinary and food and beverage team that shares Wallacea Livings commitment to excellence. Provide ongoing coaching and development, ensuring team members can operate independently and uphold premium standards in your absence. Conduct regular one-to-one meetings and formal performance reviews to provide feedback, recognise achievements, and address areas for improvement in a constructive and supportive manner. Lead with empathy, respect, and attention to individual development, fostering a collaborative and motivated team culture.

Resident Engagement

Build trusted, respectful relationships with owners, tailoring dining experiences to individual preferences, health needs, and dietary requirements. Offer thoughtful, personalised service through both communal dining and in-home catering options. Work alongside the General Manager to ensure food and service consistently exceed expectations and support overall wellbeing. Be prepared to run cookery demonstrations and cook alongs with our owner population. Play an active role in planning and delivering events by working collaboratively across the Wallacea Living team. These events may be themed around national celebrations, seasonal occasions, or local community activities, with the culinary experience playing a central role in creating memorable experiences for our owners.

About You

To be successful in this role, the Head Chef will possess the following:

Experience:

Proven experience in a senior culinary role within high-end hospitality, such as boutique hotels, fine dining, private members clubs, or luxury residential settings. Track record of delivering premium food and service in an environment that values discretion, elegance, and individual attention. Experience managing budgets, supplier relationships, and compliance processes.

Qualifications:

Culinary qualification or professional kitchen training preferred. Current Food Hygiene Level 2 (minimum), with Level 3 or above advantageous. Additional training in nutrition, allergen awareness, or special diets is desirable. On-the-job training and professional development provided through Wallacea Livings training programme.

Attributes:

Passion about creating exceptional food experiences that elevate quality of life. Professional, composed, and confident communicator with a hospitality-first mindset. Strong leadership skills with the ability to inspire and develop others in a service-driven culture. Meticulous attention to detail, organisation, and presentation. Emotionally intelligent, warm, and comfortable engaging with older residents and high net worth individuals.

About Wallacea Living:

Wallacea Living is a developer and operator of Integrated Retirement Communities (IRCs); purpose-built residences designed to meet the unique needs of people over 65. These communities provide not only comfortable homes but also access to an inspiring lifestyle that combines hospitality, social opportunities with like-minded neighbour's, and quality care services as needed. Each Wallacea Living property is sold as a "home for life," offering residents the stability and support needed to live independently and comfortably for the rest of their lives.


Were dedicated to creating real communities that foster meaningful connections, joy, and purpose in later life. If youre inspired by the opportunity to support and engage with people in ways that make a lasting difference, we welcome you to be part of our mission.


For more information about Wallacea Living, please visit our website on www.wallacealiving.com