Experienced Head Chef for Italian Restaurant

Lievito Madre is an independent pizzeria and Italian restaurant located in the heart of Clapham and we are looking for a dynamic and experienced chef to lead our kitchen and who will keep up with our premium food standards. Our restaurant is known for our warm hospitality and high-quality ingredients. We pride ourselves on our traditional pizzas and a menu of classic Italian dishes made from scratch.

• Menu Development:
  Design seasonal specials while maintaining the integrity of our classic Italian core menu.
• Quality Control:
  Oversee the preparation of fresh pasta, sauces, and the making and stretching of pizza dough to ensure consistency.
• Team Management:
  Lead, train, and schedule the kitchen brigade. Conduct interviews and inductions for new staff.
• Stock & Cost Control:
  Manage food margins, control waste, and liaise with suppliers to source the best ingredients.
• Health & Safety:
  Ensure full compliance with HACCP, food safety, and hygiene regulations.

• Minimum 4 years of experience as a Head Chef or Senior Sous Chef in an Italian/Pizzeria environment.
• Must have strong pizza-making skills (oven experience is a bonus).
• Proven ability to manage a kitchen budget and gross profit margins.
• A natural leader who can stay calm under pressure during busy services.
• EU/UK Right to Work.

• Competitive salary plus share of service charge.
• 28 days holiday.
• Staff discount for you and friends/family.
• We pay monthly on the last Friday of every month via PAYE.

• Experience: Required
• Languages: English – Advanced
• Employment: Full‑time
• Schedule: 45–50 hours a week
• Salary: £40,000 – £42,000 yearly
• Benefits: Salary Best On experience

We are a fully independent business with 2 restaurants based in Clapham SW4.