Head of CulinaryFulham PierPositioned on the Thames and nestled by parkland, we’ve bought life to this pocket of South-West London by creating a unique destination that’ll be open morning, noon, and night. Whether a visitor is looking to start the day with sunrise yoga, pop in for a flat white between meetings, try a pizza class with the kids or make a date with a glass of bubbles, there’s something for everyone.Your role in this destination is to continuously ensure we deliver the exceptional culinary offering that makes every visit a memorable experience, to make every day worth savouring. Fulham Pier is the heart of the community, and so are you.The RoleThe Head of Culinary Operations is a senior leadership role responsible for the comprehensive management of culinary services across multiple outlets or a large-scale kitchen environment.You will spearhead menu innovation, oversee multi-unit kitchen management, and drive continuous improvement initiatives while ensuring adherence to the highest standards of food quality, safety, and customer satisfaction.Above all you will develop and execute a strategic vision for the culinary department that aligns with the organization's goals, brand identity, and customer expectations, ensuring the delivery of exceptional dining experiences to a clientele who expect only the best.Main ResponsibilitiesStrategic Culinary Leadership:Lead the conceptualization and development of seasonal and signature menus across all outlets, incorporating market trends, customer feedback, and nutritional considerations.Collaborate with executive leadership on long-term business planning, including market positioning, growth strategies, and culinary innovations.Operational Excellence:Design and implement robust operational frameworks for multi-kitchen environments, ensuring consistency in food preparation, presentation, and service delivery.Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) related to kitchen efficiency, food quality, customer satisfaction, and financial performance.Oversee the implementation of advanced kitchen technology, automation tools, and culinary software to streamline operations and improve productivity.Financial Stewardship:Develop and manage the culinary department’s budget, including food and labor costs, capital expenditures, and resource allocation.Conduct comprehensive financial analysis to identify opportunities for cost optimization without compromising on quality.Lead the procurement strategy, negotiating with suppliers and managing relationships to secure the best quality ingredients at competitive prices.Team Development & Leadership:Build and lead a high-performing culinary team, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement.Implement advanced training and development programs that enhance culinary skills, leadership capabilities, and operational knowledge within the team.Conduct regular performance evaluations, succession planning, and career development initiatives to ensure a motivated and skilled workforce.Quality Assurance & Compliance:Establish and enforce stringent quality control measures, ensuring that all culinary operations meet or exceed industry standards for food safety, hygiene, and presentation.Oversee regular audits and inspections of kitchen facilities, equipment, and processes to ensure compliance with local and national health regulations.Develop and implement crisis management protocols for food safety incidents, ensuring swift and effective resolution.Cross-Departmental Collaboration:Work closely with marketing, sales, and event management teams to create cohesive and marketable culinary experiences that drive customer engagement and revenue growth.Collaborate with the procurement and supply chain teams to ensure the timely and efficient delivery of ingredients and supplies.Partner with the HR department to ensure alignment on recruitment strategies, staff retention, and workplace culture initiatives.Customer Experience & Innovation:Engage directly with high-profile clients, VIPs, and key stakeholders to gather feedback and tailorSustainability & Ethical Practices:Champion sustainable practices within the culinary department, including waste reduction, ethical sourcing, and energy efficiency.Lead initiatives aimed at reducing the environmental footprint of culinary operations, aligning with broader corporate sustainability goals.The Ideal CandidateYou will be a renowned expect in the culinary industry with an impressive careerin various culinary leadership roles, including multi-unit and large-scale operations as well as managing culinary operations in Michelin Star dining establishments.Extensive menu development expertise is essential, as is experience in managing a large team effectively, as well as a broad range of concepts and offerings. You must be comfortable and confident in leading a range of culinary ‘levels’- from casual to premium.You must also be highly capable in relation to financial and strategic awareness and delivery so a proven track record of excelling in financial matters such as budgeting, cost control, and revenue generation is desired. The position requires a strategic thinker who can seamlessly integrate culinary excellence with operational efficiency, ensuring a dynamic balance between creativity, cost control, and team leadership.A higher education in culinary arts or a related field, paired with additional certifications in food safety and business management, further enhances the candidate's qualifications. A strong understanding of global cuisines and contemporary culinary techniques, along with a keen eye for fine dining standards, is crucial.You will also have:Strong creative skills with experience in identifying target audiences.Excellent business relationship skills.A solid background in working with key stakeholders internally and externally to achieve targets.Understanding of launching and activating new hospitality spaces.Experience of working in Dynamic and fast-paced environments with multiple operational sites.Flexibility to travel between locations, work extended hours, and adapt to varying shifts.Strong team management and leadership skills, with the ability to motivate and develop a diverse workforce.What we offerWe offer a salary of £80,000 to £87,500 plus excellent benefits that include:20% performance related bonus£1,300 flex benefit fund£8,000 car allowanceWe’re experience makers and food fanatics. Our experiences are unique, and so are our people. Bring personality, your background and your desire for delighting others. In return we’ll give you all you need to thrive because at Sodexo Live! we’re so much more. Be part of something greater.We’re a Disability Confident Leader employer. We’re committed to changing attitudes towards disability, and making sure disabled people have the chance to fulfil their aspirations. We run a Disability Confident interview scheme for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria for the job.
