Job Description

Company Description

Our commitment to Diversity & Inclusion:

We are an inclusive company and our ambition is to attract, recruit and promote diverse talent.

We are seeking an experienced and innovative Head Chef to lead our culinary team in Southampton, United Kingdom. As the Head Chef, you will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of our kitchen operations, creating exceptional dining experiences, and maintaining the highest standards of food quality, presentation and all Food Safety Requirements.

Lead and inspire a diverse culinary team across multiple dining venues and event spaces Develop and implement creative, high-quality menus that showcase innovative techniques and diverse cuisines Oversee daily kitchen operations, ensuring smooth service flow and maintaining exceptional standards Manage budgets, food costs, and labour costs effectively, driving efficiencies without compromising quality Collaborate closely with the events team to create outstanding offerings for guests and clients Implement and maintain strict food safety and hygiene standards throughout all kitchen areas Oversee inventory management, including ordering and stock control, to minimise waste and optimise costs Mentor and develop kitchen staff, fostering a positive and collaborative work environment Stay abreast of current food trends and culinary techniques to keep our offerings fresh and exciting Ensure compliance with all relevant health and safety regulations and food handling standards

Qualifications

Minimum of 2 years' experience as a Head Chef, Banquet Chef, or Executive Sous Chef in a high-volume, multi-venue setting Culinary degree or equivalent qualification from a recognised institution Proven leadership skills with the ability to motivate and manage a large kitchen team Strong background in meetings and events catering Excellent communication skills in English; additional languages are advantageous Demonstrated expertise in menu planning, food costing, and budget management In-depth knowledge of various cuisines and innovative culinary techniques Solid understanding of health and safety regulations, food handling procedures, and HACCP principles Proficiency in kitchen management software and Microsoft Office suite Strong organisational skills with the ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment Passion for hospitality and creating memorable dining experiences Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as required * Creative problem-solving skills and ability to think on your feet