Head Chef – Events
Location: Hertford (with events across London and the UK)
Hours: Full-time, 40 hours per week (flexibility required around event schedules)
Salary: £45,000–£55,000 per annum, depending on experience, plus performance bonus
About The London Kitchen
The London Kitchen ( www.thelondonkitchen.com ) is an independent, award-winning events caterer delivering exceptional food experiences across corporate events, private celebrations, luxury weddings and high-profile venues. As we continue to grow, we are looking for an experienced and passionate Head Event Chef to lead our kitchen operations and play a key role in delivering outstanding events.
This is far more than a traditional kitchen role. You'll take ownership of food production from preparation through to service, leading by example both in the kitchen and on-site at events.
The Role
Working from our Hertford kitchen, you'll oversee the preparation and delivery of food for a diverse range of events across London and beyond. Every week is different, from intimate private dining experiences to large-scale corporate functions.
You'll be responsible for ensuring every dish leaves the kitchen to the highest possible standard and that every event runs smoothly from a culinary perspective.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead food preparation for a wide range of corporate, private and large-scale events.
- Manage kitchen production, ensuring quality, consistency and presentation remain exceptional.
- Deliver and oversee food service at events across London and the surrounding areas.
- Maintain the highest standards of food safety, hygiene and kitchen organisation.
- Manage stock levels, ordering and supplier relationships.
- Plan efficiently to ensure events are delivered on time and within budget.
- Work closely with the wider operations team to ensure seamless event delivery.
- Lead by example, motivating and supporting junior kitchen staff where required.
- Take ownership of the kitchen during quieter periods, identifying opportunities to improve systems, processes and menus.
About You
You'll be someone who enjoys the pace and variety of event catering and thrives in an environment where no two days are the same. You'll have:
- Proven experience in event catering or high-volume hospitality.
- Strong organisational and time management skills.
- A calm approach under pressure with excellent problem-solving ability.
- High standards of food quality and presentation.
- The confidence to work independently and take ownership.
- A flexible approach to working hours, including evenings and weekends when required.
- A full UK driving licence and confidence driving a van.
What We Offer
- £45,000–£55,000 salary depending on experience.
- Performance-related bonus scheme.
- Full-time permanent position (40 hours per week).
- Standard UK holiday entitlement.
- A varied role with no two events the same.
- The opportunity to help shape a growing independent events business.
- A supportive team where your ideas and experience are genuinely valued.
If you're looking for a role that combines creativity, responsibility and the excitement of delivering exceptional events, we'd love to hear from you.