Head Chef – Bespoke Events, Private Dining & Luxury Venue Catering
£60,000 + TOIL | South London (CPU-Based) | Full-Time
An exceptional opportunity for a seasoned Head Chef to lead a Michelin Guide-recognised events and private dining operation delivering exquisite, high-volume fine dining across the UK and internationally.
We are seeking a chef of calibre — someone equally at home executing refined tasting menus for intimate gatherings as they are leading complex, large-scale productions in premium venues. This is a senior, hands-on leadership role for a chef who understands precision, pace and polish at every level.
The Role
As Head Chef, you will drive the culinary vision and execution across a diverse portfolio of bespoke events — from elegant private dinners and canapé receptions to high-volume, multi-site luxury productions.
You will be responsible for:
1. Leading the execution of refined tasting menus, canapé concepts and bespoke private dining experiences
2. Delivering consistently exquisite food at scale across high-end events and venue catering
3. Developing seasonally driven menus with creativity, technical finesse and commercial focus
4. Overseeing all kitchen operations from CPU production to on-site event delivery
5. Managing a core brigade of 4 chefs, alongside agency teams for larger productions
6. Maintaining Michelin Guide-level standards across multiple kitchens and event environments
7. Ensuring seamless logistics, prep planning and event execution
8. Full P&L responsibility including menu costing, supplier negotiation, procurement and onboarding new premium suppliers
This is a role for a chef who thrives on detail — from immaculate canapés for 500 guests to flawlessly executed multi-course tasting menus.
Location & Travel
9. Based from a Central Production Unit in South London
10. Approximately 80% of events take place midweek during off-peak season
11. Flexibility required for peak-season travel, including multi-day and international events
About You
12. Proven experience as a Head Chef within luxury events, bespoke catering or premium private dining
13. Strong background in high-volume fine dining and canapé production
14. Experience delivering across premium venues and multi-site operations
15. A calm, authoritative leader with the ability to inspire and develop high-performing teams
16. Commercially astute with strong financial, costing and procurement expertise
17. Highly organised, solutions-focused and composed under pressure
18. Passionate about delivering memorable, Michelin-recognised guest experiences at every scale
What’s On Offer
19. £60,000 salary + TOIL (Time Off In Lieu)
20. The opportunity to lead and shape a distinguished, bespoke events culinary offering
21. Creative autonomy within an ambitious and well-supported business
22. Exposure to prestigious UK and international events
23. A platform to deliver truly exceptional, refined cuisine at scale
Kellan Group (including all of our brands, Berkeley Scott and Xpress Recruitment) are committed to promoting equal opportunities to people regardless of age, gender, religion, belief, race, sexuality or disability. We operate as an employment agency and employment business. You'll find a wide selection of vacancies on our websites