Head Pastry Chef
Head Pastry ChefCompany: Houston & Hawkes Location: Central London, NW1 4NS Salary: £47,500 per annum Contract: Full-time, PermanentABOUT THE ROLEHouston & Hawkes are looking for an exceptionally talented and creative Head Pastry Chef to join our culinary team at a prestigious client site in Central London. This is not a role for the average pastry chef — we need someone truly outstanding, with the skill and composure to deliver at the highest level.The site hosts a calendar of high-profile summer events, attracting prestigious guests and requiring impeccable standards of presentation and creativity. You will manage the pastry section and craft both classic and modern creations — from beautifully plated desserts to artisan breads and bespoke cakes — all to a standard befitting some of London’s most distinguished occasions.KEY RESPONSIBILITIESLead the pastry section and oversee day-to-day kitchen operationsDeliver exceptional pastry work for high-profile summer events and prestigious occasionsCreate a high-quality and imaginative selection of desserts, pastries, and baked itemsManage and mentor a dedicated pastry team to deliver excellenceCollaborate with the Head Chef and Hospitality Manager on menus and eventsInnovate with new recipes for fine dining and retail-style coffee conceptsUphold standards of quality, flavour, and presentation at all timesManage stock, ordering, and kitchen budgetsMaintain a clean, safe, and compliant kitchen environmentAdapt recipes for dietary requirements including gluten-free and sugar-freeChampion the company’s food ethos through creativity and consistencyWHAT WE'RE LOOKING FORProven experience in a senior pastry role, ideally in fine dining or 5-star settingsA genuine passion for pastry, baking, and culinary artistryStrong leadership and team management skillsExceptional creativity and meticulous attention to detailSolid knowledge of food safety, allergens, and kitchen hygiene standardsExcellent time management and organisational skillsRelevant culinary or pastry qualifications (preferred)Experience in high-end contract catering or hospitality environments (advantageous)WHAT WE OFFER£47,500 salaryWork with an award-winning Director of FoodEvolving, creative menus to showcase your talentTop 20 Hospitality Company to Work ForFree meals while on dutyContributory pension schemeLife assurance (2x salary)Birthday off Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)Company events including Recognition schemes and staff awardsEnhanced parental leaveReferral bonusesOngoing training, development, and clear progressionABOUT HOUSTON & HAWKESHouston & Hawkes is an innovative, independent contract caterer based in the South East. We are proud to be an award-winning, certified B Corp company, ranked among the Top 30 hospitality employers in the UK. We deliver bespoke, seasonal food experiences across workplaces, events, and hospitality spaces, built by teams who share our passion for flavour, service, and creativity.HOW TO APPLYIf you are a creative and ambitious pastry chef ready to lead with flair, apply today and bring your talent to Houston & Hawkes.
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