Daytime Production Catering Lead - Head Chef

Head Chef - Production Catering Kitchen

South West London

Full time - Monday-Friday

£25 per hour (5am-1/2pm)

We are looking for a talented and experienced Head Chef to lead the kitchen operations of a growing catering company supplying high-quality hot food, canapés, salads, and corporate catering to offices and local businesses across South West London.

This is an excellent opportunity for a chef who enjoys structured daytime hours, thrives in a fast-paced production environment, and takes pride in delivering consistently high standards.

The Role

As Head Chef, you will oversee the daily production and service within a busy catering kitchen, leading an experienced brigade to deliver fresh, high-quality food for corporate clients and events.

The menu offering includes:

• South Asian-inspired hot dishes
• British classics such as lasagne and traditional comfort food
• Fresh salads and healthy lunch options
• Canapés, buffets, and working lunches for office hospitality and events

You will be responsible for ensuring smooth kitchen operations, maintaining quality and consistency, and meeting daily production deadlines.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, motivate, and develop the kitchen team
• Oversee all food preparation and production
• Prepare and cook a variety of South Asian-inspired dishes and British classics
• Ensure food quality, consistency, and presentation standards are maintained
• Manage kitchen prep, ordering, stock control, and daily production schedules
• Maintain excellent food hygiene and health & safety standards
• Work closely with management to support business growth and client satisfaction
• Ensure all orders are delivered accurately and on time

About You

• Previous experience as a Head Chef or strong Senior Sous Chef within a production kitchen or high-volume catering environment or contract catering
• Strong organisational and leadership skills
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced kitchen with multiple daily deadlines
• Experience with both modern Asian flavours and classic British cuisine
• Passionate about quality food and efficient kitchen operations
• Reliable, hands on, and proactive in leading a team

Working Hours

This is a full-time, hourly paid role offering an excellent work-life balance.

Shift Patterns:

• 5:00am - 1:00pm
• 5:00am - 2:00pm

Predominantly Monday to Friday, with occasional flexibility required depending on business needs.

Must be able to drive

Pay & Benefits

• £25 per hour
• Full-time hours
• Daytime shifts only
• Stable Monday-Friday schedule
• Opportunity to join a growing and ambitious catering business
• Supportive and experienced team environment