Executive Head Chef - Independent School - Monday to Friday Lifestyle - £52K

Looking for an Executive Head Chef role with real work–life balance, while still delivering high-quality food and hospitality?

We’re recruiting an Executive Head Chef to lead a prestigious independent boarding school, overseeing a high-volume food operation alongside a strong and growing hospitality offer.

This is a rare opportunity to step into a well-structured, respected environment where you can lead a team, influence the food offer, and enjoy a more balanced lifestyle without stepping away from quality.

The Offer

• £52,000 to £55,000 Per Year
• 52-week contract
• Typically, 6:30am – 3:00pm (latest finish around 7:00pm)
• Time off in lieu for additional hours
• On-site parking
• Strong work–life balance compared to traditional hospitality
• Stable, long-term leadership role

The School & Operation

• Prestigious independent boarding school (Years 7–13).
• Feeding approximately 1,000 students daily.
• Monday–Thursday full boarding operation.
• Friday lighter service, Saturday sports hospitality.
• £400k–£500k annual hospitality revenue.
• High-quality, hotel-style hospitality and events.
• Beautiful, historic dining environment with modern kitchen.
• Investment into facilities, including new Sixth Form development.

The Role

This is a senior leadership role with full responsibility for the kitchen operation.

• Lead the kitchen as Executive Head Chef.
• Manage and develop a team of 9 chefs and 4–5 KPs.
• Oversee daily delivery across student dining and hospitality.
• Drive food quality, consistency and presentation.
• Plan and deliver structured, seasonal school menus.
• Manage budgets, GP, stock and overall kitchen performance.
• Lead recruitment, training and team development.
• Maintain high standards of food safety and compliance.

About You

• Experienced Executive Head Chef or Head Chef in Independent School Catering.
• Strong leadership and team development skills.
• Reliable, consistent and committed to long-term roles.

Why This Role?

This is a genuinely standout education role where:

• You gain work–life balance without stepping away from quality food.
• You lead a well-run, respected school operation.
• You deliverboth high-volume feeding and premium hospitality.
• You’re part of a stable, long-term environment with real impact.

If you are keen to discuss the details further, please apply today or send your cv to yasmin at COREcruitment dot com