Executive Chef - Head of R&D 80-100k

Executive Chef – Head of R&D 80-100k

London

Up to 6 months contract (potential for permanent)

 

We need a high-level chef who thinks like a scientist. This is precision-engineered flavour development. Not a traditional kitchen. Not a restaurant. This is systems-driven R&D at the highest level.

We're looking for someone who can take an already-defined sensory vision and turn it into repeatable, scalable systems. You'll be running structured testing cycles, refining flavour and aroma through controlled experimentation, and documenting everything with forensic detail.

This is for chefs who have worked in top development-led environments like Noma, The Fat Duck, Disfrutar, or Mugaritz.

What you'll do:

Lead daily R&D in a development kitchenRun controlled tests on flavour, texture, coating, and aromaDocument trials with absolute precisionTurn concepts into scalable recipes and systemsWork with external suppliers and partners

Who you are:

Highly analytical, structured, and obsessive about detailDeep understanding of how flavour behaves and how to build systemsHands-on with sous-vide, vacuum systems, precision equipmentStrong documentation and process discipline

The deal:

4–6 month contract (could go permanent)London-based development kitchenFull-time commitmentA rare chance to work outside the restaurant model at the highest level

Send your CV to Olly at COREcruitment dot com.