Head Chef required at The Kia Oval

At The Kia Oval, we don't just host cricket matches – we create unforgettable experiences. From international cricket and iconic sporting fixtures to conferences, events, our venue is alive with energy all year round.

We're looking for an exceptional Head Chef with proven restaurant experience to join our casual culinary team and deliver outstanding food experiences across our diverse hospitality operations. If you're a passionate leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment and takes pride in delivering culinary excellence, this could be your next exciting opportunity.

Your Role as Head Chef

As Head Chef, you will lead the kitchen operation, ensuring the highest standards of food quality, presentation, and service are delivered across matchdays, conferences, events, and premium hospitality experiences.

You will be responsible for

• Leading, motivating, and developing a team of chefs and kitchen staff
• Overseeing all kitchen operations and ensuring smooth service delivery
• Maintaining exceptional food safety, hygiene, and health & safety standards
• Ensuring consistency and quality across all food offerings
• Supporting the delivery of premium hospitality experiences at major sporting and live events
• Driving innovation and continuous improvement within the kitchen operation

Skills & Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Head Chef within a high-quality restaurant environment – this is essential
• Level 3 Food Hygiene Certificate
• Strong leadership and people management skills
• Experience managing high-volume kitchen operations
• Excellent culinary knowledge and a passion for food innovation
• Strong commercial awareness
• Exceptional organisational and communication skills
• A thorough understanding of HACCP, food safety, and health & safety legislation
• The ability to remain calm and deliver under pressure
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and major event days

Contract & Work Available

• Casual Zero-Hours Contract
• Flexible shifts across conferences, events, hospitality functions, and matchdays
• Opportunities available throughout the year
• Evening and weekend work required based on event schedules

Alongside cricket, you'll also support a wide range of conferences, exhibitions, banquets, and special events throughout the year.

Why Work at The Kia Oval with Constellation?

• Competitive pay based on experience
• Work at one of the UK's most prestigious sporting venues
• Career progression opportunities within Compass Group and Levy UK
• Comprehensive training and development programmes
• Compass exclusive and lifestyle benefits
• Free staff meals on duty
• Access to our Employee Assistance Programme
• Be part of a passionate and talented hospitality team delivering world-class events

A member of our recruitment team will be in touch to discuss the next steps.

Join The Kia Oval – where exceptional hospitality, world-class events, and culinary excellence come together.