Head of Culinary

Job Introduction

Job Title: Head of Culinary

Location: Fulham Pier 

Salary: Competive + Flexible benefits fund and Bonus

Work hours: 40

Work Pattern: 5/7 working days

Head of Culinary

Fulham Pier

Positioned on the Thames and nestled by parkland, we’ve bought life to this pocket of South-West London by creating a unique destination that’ll be open morning, noon, and night. Whether a visitor is looking to start the day with sunrise yoga, pop in for a flat white between meetings, try a pizza class with the kids or make a date with a glass of bubbles, there’s something for everyone.

Your role in this destination is to continuously ensure we deliver the exceptional culinary offering that makes every visit a memorable experience, to make every day worth savouring. Fulham Pier is the heart of the community, and so are you.

The Role

The Head of Culinary Operations is a senior leadership role responsible for the comprehensive management of culinary services across multiple outlets or a large-scale kitchen environment. 

You will spearhead menu innovation, oversee multi-unit kitchen management, and drive continuous improvement initiatives while ensuring adherence to the highest standards of food quality, safety, and customer satisfaction.

Above all you will develop and execute a strategic vision for the culinary department that aligns with the organisation's goals, brand identity, and customer expectations, ensuring the delivery of exceptional dining experiences to a clientele who expect only the best.

Main Responsibilities 

• Strategic Culinary Leadership: Lead the culinary vision and seasonal/signature menus across all outlets, grounded in guest insight, trends and brand.
• Operational Excellence: Set standards and KPIs for a multi-kitchen operation; ensure consistent prep, presentation and service; leverage kitchen tech to boost productivity.
• Financial Stewardship: Own budgets, control food & labour costs, and lead procurement to deliver quality at the right margin.
• Team Development & Leadership: Recruit, coach and inspire large brigades; deliver training, scheduling, performance reviews and succession.
• Quality Assurance & Compliance: Uphold HACCP and hygiene excellence; conduct audits and act fast on issues, leading incident response when needed.
• Cross-Departmental Collaboration: Work hand-in-glove with Marketing, Events, Supply Chain and HR to create cohesive, commercial culinary experiences.
• Customer Experience & Innovation: Engage directly with guests/VIPs; pilot new concepts and turn feedback into continuous improvement.
• Sustainability & Ethical Practices: Champion waste reduction, ethical sourcing and energy efficiency; track and report progress against site goals.

For a list of responsibilities please view the attached job description

The Ideal Candidate

You will be a renowned expect in the culinary industry with an impressive career in various culinary leadership roles, including multi-unit and large-scale operations as well as managing culinary operations in Michelin Star dining establishments.

Extensive menu development expertise is essential, as is experience in managing a large team effectively, as well as a broad range of concepts and offerings.  You must be comfortable and confident in leading a range of culinary ‘levels’- from casual to premium. 

You must also be highly capable in relation to financial and strategic awareness and delivery so a proven track record of excelling in financial matters such as budgeting, cost control, and revenue generation is desired. The position requires a strategic thinker who can seamlessly integrate culinary excellence with operational efficiency, ensuring a dynamic balance between creativity, cost control, and team leadership.

A higher education in culinary arts or a related field, paired with additional certifications in food safety and business management, further enhances the candidate's qualifications. A strong understanding of global cuisines and contemporary culinary techniques, along with a keen eye for fine dining standards, is crucial. 

At Sodexo Live! we are experience makers and food fanatics. Our experiences are unique, and so are our people. Bring personality, your background and your desire for delighting others. In return we’ll give you all you need to thrive because at Sodexo Live! we’re so much more. Be part of something greater.

We’re a Disability Confident Leader employer. We’re committed to changing attitudes towards disability, and making sure disabled people have the chance to fulfil their aspirations. We run a Disability Confident interview scheme for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria for the job.