EXECUTIVE CHEF
United Kingdom | Michelin-Starred Restaurant | Exclusive Retained Search
For chefs who refuse to compromise.
Smyth & Co is proud to be exclusively retained by one of the UK’s most exciting and highly acclaimed restaurant groups to appoint an exceptional Executive Chef.
This is an opportunity to lead one of the country’s most ambitious kitchens, where precision, creativity and excellence are non-negotiable. Working with exceptional ingredients, an outstanding brigade and ownership that genuinely invests in people and quality, you’ll have the platform to create something truly remarkable.
This isn’t simply about maintaining standards—it’s about raising them.
The Chef
We’re searching for a chef with an exceptional Michelin pedigree.
You’ll have trained and developed within one, two or three Michelin-starred kitchens and will already be operating as either an Executive Chef, Head Chef or Senior Head Chef in a highly regarded fine dining restaurant.
You’re a craftsman who obsesses over detail, flavour and consistency. Service is your stage, excellence is your benchmark and developing exceptional people is as important to you as creating exceptional food.
This role requires a leader who inspires through passion, professionalism and example.
What We’re Looking For
- Michelin-starred experience is essential and a chef who wants to push for more accolades
- A proven track record leading high-performing fine dining kitchens.
- Outstanding leadership and people management skills.
- A calm, composed presence during service.
- Exceptional knowledge of classical and modern techniques.
- Strong financial awareness, including food cost management, GP, labour planning and menu engineering.
- Experience mentoring and developing ambitious chefs.
- Passion for seasonal produce, innovation and delivering unforgettable guest experiences.
The Opportunity
As Executive Chef, you’ll be responsible for every aspect of the culinary operation.
Working closely with ownership and senior leadership, you’ll drive menu development, recruit and mentor an exceptional brigade, maintain Michelin-level standards and ensure every guest experience exceeds expectations.
You’ll inherit a talented team and a kitchen with genuine ambition, while enjoying the creative freedom and support to continue pushing culinary boundaries.
This is a rare opportunity to join a business where excellence isn’t just encouraged—it’s expected.
The Individual
Beyond your culinary ability, we’re looking for someone with humility, integrity and a genuine passion for hospitality.
A leader who develops people.
A chef who earns respect through actions rather than titles.
Someone who wants to create a lasting legacy while continuing to evolve both personally and professionally.
If you’re driven by excellence, inspired by creativity and motivated by building one of the UK’s finest culinary teams, we’d love to hear from you.
The Package
A highly competitive salary, performance-related bonus and exceptional long-term career opportunities are available for the right individual.
Strictly Confidential | Exclusive Retained Search
This appointment is being managed exclusively by Smyth & Co Luxury Consultants.
Due to the confidential nature of this retained search, further details will be shared with shortlisted candidates following an initial confidential discussion.
Extraordinary Opportunities for Extraordinary Talent.
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