Location: The Landing Hotel, Biggin Hill Airport, London.
Department: Kitchen
Reports to: General Manager / Executive Chef, UK
Employment Type: Full-Time
About Us
The Landing Hotel is a 4-star boutique hotel offering a unique and personalised experience for our guests at London Biggin Hill Airport. With 56 bedrooms, a bar and restaurant. Purpose built for local crews of inbound business aircraft. With an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients, seasonal menus, and exceptional service, our restaurant is a key element of the guest experience.
Position Summary
The Head Chef is responsible for overseeing all culinary operations, including liaising with the aviation production team, ensuring the highest standards of food quality, consistency, presentation, and hygiene. The ideal candidate will be a creative, hands-on leader who can develop inspiring menus, manage kitchen staff, and drive culinary excellence in alignment with the hotel's brand and standards.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead and manage the kitchen team, including sous chefs, line cooks, and kitchen porters
* Plan and design innovative, seasonal menus that align with the hotel's brand and guest expectations
* Maintain high standards of food quality, taste, presentation, and consistency
* Ensure compliance with health, safety, and hygiene regulations always
* Manage food purchasing, inventory, and cost control to meet budget targets
* Train, mentor, and develop kitchen staff to maintain high performance and morale
* Collaborate with the General Manager and F&B team on promotions, events, and guest feedback
* Monitor kitchen operations during service, ensuring smooth workflow and prompt delivery of dishes
* Maintain equipment and kitchen facilities to ensure safety and operational efficiency
* Stay up to date with food trends and industry innovations
* Oversee aviation business production on day-to-day basis.
* Liaise with Head of Operations on logistics and delivery schedules.
Qualifications and Experience
* Proven experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef in a 4-star hotel or high-end restaurant
* Formal culinary training or relevant qualification preferred
* Strong knowledge of modern cooking techniques, food safety, and kitchen management
* Excellent leadership and team management skills
* Creativity, attention to detail, and a passion for delivering memorable dining experiences
* Ability to work under pressure and maintain high standards during busy service times
* Understanding of budget management, food costing, and inventory control
* Driving Licence Required
Benefits
* Competitive salary based on experience.
* Staff meals during shifts.
* Opportunity for career growth within a dynamic hospitality group.
* Parking On site.
* Pension Scheme
* Health Cash Plan
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: From £43,000.00 per year
Benefits:
* Company events
* Company pension
* Discounted or free food
* On-site parking
Application question(s):
* Do you have a driving licence?
Experience:
* Leadership: 3 years (preferred)
Work Location: In person