Head Chef/ Kitchen Manager

"Why work for Accor?

We are far more than a worldwide leader. We welcome you as you are and you can find a job and brand that matches your personality. We support you to grow and learn every day, making sure that work brings purpose to your life, so that during your journey with us, you can continue to explore Accor’s limitless possibilities.

By joining Accor, every chapter of your story is yours to write and together we can imagine tomorrow's hospitality. Discover the life that awaits you at Accor, visit https://careers.accor.com/

Do what you love, care for the world, dare to challenge the status quo! #BELIMITLESS"

Join Our Team as Head Chef at ibis Styles London Gatwick Airport

At ibis Styles London Gatwick Airport, we’re looking for a driven and experienced Head Chef/Kitchen Manager to lead our kitchen at the vibrant, open‑plan Wanderlust bar and restaurant.

This is a fully operational role where the Head Chef leads from the front, working on the pass, cooking during service, and setting standards through example. The successful candidate will take full responsibility for the day‑to‑day running of the kitchen while delivering consistently high‑quality food in a fast‑paced hotel environment.

This is a full‑time position, and we offer competitive pay of up to £35,000.00 per annum, along with a comprehensive benefits package including hotel discounts, a day off on your birthday, and more.

Key Responsibilities:

• Leading the kitchen operation on a day‑to‑day basis, remaining fully hands‑on during service
• Preparing, cooking, and presenting dishes to a consistently high standard
• Managing and motivating the kitchen team, setting expectations and driving performance
• Ensuring full compliance with food hygiene, health & safety, and cleanliness standards
• Overseeing stock control, ordering, rota planning, and waste management
• Training, developing, and supporting junior chefs and kitchen team members
• Working closely with the food & beverage team to ensure smooth service and strong communication
• Contributing to menu development while maintaining brand standards and cost controls

What we’re looking for:

• Minimum 3 years’ experience in a senior or leadership kitchen role within a hotel, pub, or high‑street restaurant
• Proven ability to lead a team while remaining actively involved in cooking and service
• Strong knowledge of HACCP, food safety, and kitchen operations
• Flexibility to work a variety of shifts, including evenings and weekends
• A proactive, organised approach with pride in delivering excellent food and standards

With over 180 rooms, our hotel welcomes guests from around the world — from business travellers to families beginning their holidays. Food plays a major role in their experience, and our Head Chef is central to delivering a welcoming, reliable, and memorable offering.

If you’re a true kitchen leader who enjoys being on the tools while driving standards and developing a team, we’d love to hear from you.

Our commitment to Diversity & Inclusion:

We are an inclusive company and our ambition is to attract, recruit and promote diverse talent.