Head Chef / Group Head Chef | Events & Banqueting | International Hotel & Fine Dining Experience

We are working with a highly accomplished Head Chef / Group Head Chef with over 20 years of international culinary and leadership experience across hotels, resorts, fine-dining restaurants, and large-scale events and banqueting operations. Currently operating at Executive Chef level, this candidate is now seeking senior Head Chef or Group Head Chef opportunities within established hospitality businesses offering Skilled Worker visa sponsorship.

With senior leadership experience in both the UK and South Africa, including dual Executive Chef appointments, this candidate has a proven track record of overseeing multi-site kitchen operations, developing culinary strategy, and leading high-performing teams across complex food and beverage environments.
Head Chef & Group Leadership Expertise

This chef brings strong experience managing events, banqueting, and multi-outlet kitchens, alongside premium à la carte and fine-dining operations. Key strengths include:
• Group-level oversight of kitchen standards and food quality
• Menu development, concept creation, and brand consistency
• Leadership and mentoring of Head Chefs and senior kitchen teams
• Cost control, GP management, stock control, and procurement
• Food safety, compliance, and operational best practice
• Recruitment, training, and long-term team development

Well-versed in balancing creativity with commercial performance, they deliver kitchens that are both financially sound and guest-focused.
Culinary Background & International Experience

Formally trained at the Silwood School of Cookery, achieving a Grande Diploma in Culinary Arts, this Head Chef has developed a diverse and adaptable culinary style. Cuisine experience includes:
• Contemporary fine dining
• African, Colonial English, and Indian cuisine
• Italian-influenced modern menus
• Hotel, resort, lodge, and destination dining

Their international career spans South Africa, the UK, and professional experience in the USA, providing a global understanding of hospitality standards, food trends, and large-scale kitchen leadership.

Key Skills & Competencies
• Head Chef / Group Head Chef leadership
• Multi-site and multi-outlet kitchen management
• Events & banqueting operations
• Menu strategy, costing, and food innovation
• GP control, purchasing, and supplier management
• Staff training, succession planning, and leadership development
• Food safety, hygiene, and quality assurance
• Strong operational and commercial decision-making

Candidate Overview
• Target roles: Head Chef / Group Head Chef
• Notice period: 4 weeks
• Visa status: Skilled Worker Visa – sponsorship required
• Education: Grande Diploma in Culinary Arts – Silwood School of Cookery

This candidate would be an excellent fit for hotel groups, resort operators, restaurant groups, conference venues, and premium hospitality brands seeking a senior culinary leader capable of driving consistency, innovation, and operational excellence across single or multiple sites.

For more information: Dave@perfect-recruitment.co.uk / 01257264264

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