Group Executive Head Chef - Reigate

Group Executive Head Chef - Reigate Group Executive Chef - Lodestone House at The Reigate Grammar School Group Lead Culinary Excellence Across One of the UK's Leading Independent School Groups Lodestone House is proud to deliver exceptional catering and hospitality services across The Reigate Grammar School Group , comprising Reigate Grammar School, Reigate St Mary's, Micklefield School and Chinthurst School.

With a rich history and an innovative approach to education, the Group is renowned for its academic excellence, outstanding pastoral care and vibrant co-curricular programme. We are now looking for an exceptional Group Executive Chef to lead our culinary operation and set the benchmark for food quality, innovation and hospitality across the Group. About the Role As Group Executive Chef , you will provide strategic and operational culinary leadership across the Lodestone House portfolio, with The Reigate Grammar School Group as a flagship account.

You will shape the culinary vision, drive innovation and ensure consistently high standards across multiple sites. Working closely with operational leaders, school leadership teams and culinary managers, you will champion fresh, seasonal food and create memorable dining experiences for pupils, staff and visitors. This is a high-profile senior leadership opportunity for a commercially focused and inspirational chef who enjoys being visible and hands-on, developing talented teams and delivering culinary excellence across multiple locations.

What You'll Be DoingCulinary Leadership Develop and deliver the culinary strategy across the Lodestone House portfolio. Lead, inspire and mentor Head Chefs, Chef Managers and their teams. Create innovative, seasonal menus reflecting current food trends and client expectations. Drive consistency and excellence across dining, hospitality and event services. Provide visible, hands-on culinary leadership and support sites whenever required.

Food Quality & Standards Champion exceptional food quality, presentation and customer experience. Ensure compliance with food safety, allergen legislation and company standards. Drive consistency through effective recipe management, purchasing compliance and production standards. Promote sustainable sourcing, responsible food practices and waste reduction. Continuously review and develop the food offer to exceed expectations.

Commercial Performance Manage food cost performance, gross profit and budget delivery. Use operational data and insight to maximise participation and profitability. Support new contract mobilisations and the retention of existing business. Contribute to business growth through menu development, food presentations and client engagement. People & Talent Development Build and develop a high-performing culinary leadership team.

Deliver coaching, mentoring and structured development programmes. Support succession planning and create clear career pathways for culinary talent. Foster an inclusive, collaborative and innovative food culture. Client & Business Partnership Build strong and trusted relationships with school leadership teams and key stakeholders. Support hospitality events, client presentations and business development opportunities.

Act as a culinary ambassador for Lodestone House. Ensure every location consistently delivers an exceptional hospitality experience. About You We're looking for an experienced senior culinary leader who can combine creativity and culinary expertise with strong commercial and people leadership. You will ideally have: Proven experience as a Group Executive Chef, Executive Chef or Regional Executive Chef within education, hospitality or contract catering.

Experience leading multiple kitchen teams across several sites. A genuine passion for fresh food, culinary innovation and exceptional customer experiences. Strong commercial awareness, including food cost and budget management. Outstanding leadership, coaching and people development skills. Excellent communic