As Head of Food, you'll shape and lead the Dine food strategy across our national estate, defining what great looks like and ensuring it's delivered consistently, commercially and creatively. This is a high-impact, food-first leadership role. You'll influence everything from concept development and innovation through to mobilisation, execution and long-term growth, ensuring our offer stays relevant, differentiated and ahead of the curve. Working closely with the Culinary Director, Dine Managing Director and senior stakeholders, you'll be the driving force behind our culinary identity. Elevating standards, inspiring teams and embedding a chef-led culture that gives our people the confidence and freedom to innovate.
Responsibilities
* Set and lead the Dine culinary vision, defining what great looks like across quality, innovation, sustainability and commercial performance
* Act as the senior culinary lead across the business, shaping food strategy and influencing key client relationships to drive retention and growth
* Develop bold, relevant and commercially viable menus, concepts and recipes that translate seamlessly into operation
* Drive consistency and high standards across all sites from tenders and mobilisations through to everyday delivery
* Lead food innovation by identifying emerging trends and translating them into scalable, market-leading offers
* Build and develop culinary capability, creating strong talent pipelines and future leaders
* Act as the culinary face of the business, leading client pitches, presentations and high-profile engagements
* Partner cross-functionally with Marketing, Operations and Supply Chain to bring food strategy to life and deliver commercial impact
Qualifications
* Proven experience in a senior culinary leadership role within a multi-site, commercial environment (hospitality, FMCG or retail advantageous)
* Strong technical knowledge of food safety, compliance and quality assurance (e.g. HACCP)
* Deep understanding of market trends, dietary inclusivity and modern food presentation
* A strong chef background with a genuine passion for food, creativity and innovation
* Commercially astute, with the ability to balance quality, cost and consistency
* Gravitas and credibility to influence clients and senior stakeholders
* A track record of building and developing high-performing teams
* A strategic, hands-on mindset, comfortable leading change at pace
* Full UK driving licence and flexibility to travel
* Candidates should be based in the North of the UK (no more than 40 miles from Warrington)
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