Location
London

Hours
Monday to Friday, Term time only (43 weeks per year)

Salary
£39,749 per annum

About the Role
Lodestone House is the leading provider of catering and support services to Independent Schools in the UK. We deliver innovative catering, hospitality, and food service by creating imaginative menus with exceptional service. As Head Chef, you will lead a passionate team preparing exciting, fresh, and nutritious food daily in a complex, busy, and multi-faceted environment that offers a great work-life balance. You will plan, organise, and direct food preparation and cooking, ensuring the company’s reputation for quality is maintained and enhanced at all times. This role involves a hands-on approach to food production, driving sales through centrally driven menu planning, promotions, and preferred suppliers. You will be responsible for all aspects of food safety, HSE, and COSHH compliance. Additionally, you will implement and maintain food monitoring procedures to support budgetary control and monitor all kitchen costs against agreed budgets. In return, we offer support and development opportunities to grow within our business alongside a competitive salary.

Benefits
We ensure you’re rewarded for your hard work with a comprehensive benefits package including:
- Contributory pension scheme
- Career development through Career Pathways and MyLearning programmes
- Quick access to a Digital GP and wider healthcare benefits for you and your immediate family
- Exclusive travel discounts with TUI, Expedia, Booking.com and more
- Discounts on grocery shopping at Tesco, Sainsbury's, Morrisons and others
- Up to 44% off cinema tickets
- Cash rewards redeemable across a wide range of brands
- Free wellness, mindfulness, and exercise classes
- Ability to share all discounts and offers with friends and family

Experience
Proven experience as a Head Chef or in a senior culinary role within a busy, multi-faceted catering environment.

About you
- Excellent and innovative culinary and presentation skills
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Energetic with a passion for delivering high-quality food
- Calm and inspirational leadership style
- Forward-thinking with a focus on preventing wastage
- Passionate about food and a team player
- Excellent organisational skills
- Numerate and computer literate with an understanding of financial drivers
- Clear understanding of profit margins, purchasing policy, budgeting, and food costing including cost control

Qualifications
Relevant culinary qualifications and food safety certifications are desirable. Commitment to continuous professional development and adherence to health and safety standards is essential.