Senior Head Chef - Kia Oval

Job Details

Senior Head Chef - The Kia Oval, London | Full time / Permanent

Up to £63,000 per annum + bonus & benefits including healthcare, meals on duty, life assurance, and more.

We're looking for an experienced and inspirational Senior Head Chef to play a leading role in all culinary operations across matchday and non-matchday functions at the iconic international cricket ground, The Kia Oval.

The Oval has been the home ground of Surrey County Cricket Club since it was opened in 1845. It was the first ground in England to host international Test cricket in September 1880. The final Test match of the English summer is traditionally played there.

The Kia Oval is a very busy venue Surrey men’s and women’s teams play a huge amount of cricket there alongside the likes Oval Invincibles and England Cricket.

Senior Head Chef - the role

Operational Leadership

• Support the Executive Chef in the planning, delivery, and supervision of all culinary operations across matchday and non-matchday functions.
• Oversee food production and service across multiple outlets: fine dining restaurants, hospitality boxes, event catering and retail.
• Ensure all menus and food presentation align with the venue’s culinary vision, sustainability standards and brand guidelines.
• Deputise for the Executive Chef during absences, maintaining high operational standards and team morale.

Menu Development & Quality

• Assist in the creation and implementation of seasonal, innovative, and cost effective menus for a variety of service styles and clientele.
• Ensure all dishes meet Levy UK / Kia Oval standards for quality, presentation and taste.
• Work collaboratively with front of house and events teams to tailor menus for VIP guests, private functions, and themed experiences.

People & Team Management

• Supervise, train, and develop the Head Chef, Sous Chefs, Chefs de Partie and Kitchen Porters to maintain a motivated and skilled culinary team.
• Lead by example cultivating a positive kitchen culture focused on teamwork, professionalism, and excellence.
• Participate in recruitment, onboarding and staff performance reviews.

Financial & Compliance

• Assist with food cost management, GP achievement and stock control through effective ordering and waste minimisation.
• Support budget planning and monthly reporting alongside the Executive Chef and finance team.
• Uphold all food safety, allergen and health & safety standards in accordance with company and legal requirements.
• Conduct regular audits of kitchen hygiene, equipment maintenance, and operational compliance.

Event & Matchday Delivery

• Ensure seamless coordination of culinary logistics for matchdays, conferences, banquets and corporate events.
• Manage chef allocation and rota planning to meet fluctuating event demands.
• Maintain a visible leadership presence during service supporting key areas, problem solving and ensuring guest satisfaction.

What we're looking for:

• Proven experience in a Head Chef or Senior Head Chef role within large-scale, multi-outlet venues (stadiums, hotels or event catering).
• Strong background in high-volume hospitality and fine dining environments.
• Excellent leadership, organisational and communication skills.
• Financial acumen with experience in food costing, GP management, and labour planning.
• Thorough understanding of food safety (Level 3 or higher in Food Hygiene).
• Creative flair and passion for modern, sustainable British cuisine.

Personal Attributes

• Calm and decisive under pressure.
• Inspirational leader who builds confidence and trust across the team.
• Flexible, adaptable and solutions focused.
• Driven by guest experience, quality and innovation.
• Embodies the Kia Oval values of excellence, integrity, and teamwork.

What you’ll get in return:

• Discretionary bonus
• Medicash - Healthcare benefits, including dental, optical and therapy treatments (includes up to 4 dependent children)
• Aviva Digicare - Free annual healthcare check
• Exclusive entertainment, travel, and shopping discounts
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Health & Wellbeing discounts - Discounts for Nuffield Health (20%) and Pure Gym (10%)
• Meals on duty
• Pension scheme and Life Assurance
• 23 days + bank holidays and additional day off for your birthday and holiday purchase scheme
• 2 days additional leave, following return from Maternity leave during first year back
• Competitive and supportive family benefits
• Day off for baby's first birthday
• Professional subscriptions, on-going training & development and career pathways
• Financial wellbeing programme and preferred rates on salary finance products

Why Join Us?

At Levy UK & Ireland, we celebrate diversity and foster inclusion, valuing every individual’s unique strengths. Our diverse team fuels creativity, innovation, and success. We promote fairness, ensure all voices are heard, and provide equal opportunities for all.

We welcome candidates from all backgrounds to join us in creating a supportive, equitable workplace where everyone can thrive and contribute.

Together, we create unforgettable experiences - and shape the future of hospitality.