Stork is London''s leading Pan-African restaurant located in the heart of Mayfair. Our dynamic cuisine showcases African culinary inspiration from across the continent and diaspora.Set between Green Park and Regent Street, we offer fine dining with rotating African art exhibitions across two floors, accommodating up to 120 guests for both

la carte dining and private events.The Role

We are seeking an exceptional

Head Chef

to lead our kitchen team and drive the culinary vision of our renowned Pan-African fine dining establishment. You will be responsible for maintaining our high standards while innovating within our unique cultural cuisine concept.Key Responsibilities

Culinary Leadership:Lead and inspire a talented kitchen team to deliver exceptional Pan-African cuisine consistentlyDevelop and execute seasonal menus that showcase the diversity of African culinary traditionsMaintain the highest standards of food quality, presentation, and flavour profilesEnsure all dishes reflect authentic cultural heritage while meeting fine dining expectationsCollaborate with management on menu pricing, costing, and profitabilityKitchen Operations:Oversee all aspects of kitchen operations including prep, service, and closing proceduresManage comprehensive food ordering systems and supplier relationshipsConduct regular stock takes and maintain accurate inventory controlImplement waste reduction initiatives and monitor food cost percentagesEnsure compliance with all health and safety regulations and food hygiene standardsCoordinate with front-of-house team to ensure seamless service deliveryHandle special dietary requirements and allergen management protocolsTeam Management:Recruit, train, and develop kitchen staff at all levelsCreate positive working environment that promotes learning and career developmentManage kitchen schedules, staff performance, and disciplinary proceduresFoster teamwork and maintain high morale during busy service periodsConduct regular team meetings and training sessionsFinancial Management:Develop accurate recipe costings and maintain target gross profit marginsManage daily, weekly, and monthly food costs within agreed budgetsConduct thorough stock takes and reconcile inventory discrepanciesAnalyse food cost reports and implement corrective actions where necessaryWork closely with management on budget planning and cost control strategiesMenu Development:Research and develop new dishes that honour Pan-African culinary traditionsCreate detailed recipe costings for all new menu items before implementationSource authentic ingredients and negotiate with suppliers to maintain quality standardsCreate seasonal offerings that reflect cultural celebrations and fresh ingredientsDesign special menus for private events and corporate dining experiencesEnsure menu items can be executed consistently during high-volume serviceWhat We''re Looking For

Essential Requirements

Culinary Expertise:

Minimum 5 years as Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef in recognised establishmentsPan-African Knowledge:

Understanding of African cuisines, ingredients, and cooking techniquesLeadership Experience:

Proven track record of managing and developing kitchen teams (10+ staff)Menu Development:

Experience creating and costing seasonal menus with detailed financial analysis for high-volume operationsFood Safety:

Current food hygiene certificates and thorough knowledge of HACCP proceduresPressure Management:

Ability to maintain standards during busy service periods and special eventsHighly Desirable

Fine Dining Background:

Experience in Michelin-starred or AA Rosette restaurantsCultural Heritage:

Personal connection to African cuisine through heritage or extensive travelCost Management:

Strong understanding of food costs, GP targets, kitchen profitability, and stock management systemsOrdering Systems:

Experience with comprehensive supplier management and inventory control proceduresFinancial Analysis:

Ability to analyse cost reports, conduct accurate stock takes, and implement cost-saving measuresTraining Experience:

Experience developing junior chefs and kitchen apprenticesEvent Catering:

Experience with private dining and special event menu planningMulti-Cultural Cuisine:

Knowledge of Caribbean, Brazilian, or other diaspora cooking stylesPersonal Qualities We Value

Cultural Passion:

Genuine enthusiasm for African culinary heritage and traditionsCreative Vision:

Ability to innovate while respecting authentic flavour profilesStrong Leadership:

Natural ability to motivate and guide team membersAttention to Detail:

Commitment to maintaining exceptional presentation and qualityAdaptability:

Flexibility to handle varying service volumes and special requirementsFinancial Acumen:

Strong analytical skills for cost control, budgeting, and inventory managementProfessional Integrity:

High standards of personal conduct and work ethicWhat We Offer

Working Environment

Lead a culturally rich kitchen team in one of London''s most prestigious dining locationsCreative freedom to develop innovative Pan-African dishes within our established conceptWork alongside rotating African art exhibitions that inspire and complement our cuisineOpportunity to be part of London''s growing recognition of African fine diningBenefits Package

Competitive salary commensurate with experiencePerformance-based bonusesComprehensive health and wellness benefitsProfessional development and training opportunitiesStaff dining privilegesCareer Development

Opportunity to establish yourself as a leader in Pan-African fine diningSupport for professional development and culinary educationPotential for involvement in menu development for future restaurant conceptsPlatform to showcase your expertise through media and industry eventsOur Commitment

At Stork, we believe in creating an inclusive environment that celebrates diversity and cultural heritage. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds who share our passion for authentic cuisine and cultural appreciation.We are particularly committed to supporting underrepresented communities, reflecting the diverse cultures we celebrate through our cuisine and art.

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