Head of Pastry- Royal Opera House
| Posting date: | 12 November 2025 |
|---|---|
| Salary: | Not specified |
| Additional salary information: | Competitive |
| Hours: | Full time |
| Closing date: | 12 December 2025 |
| Location: | London, WC2E 9DD |
| Company: | Compass Group |
| Job type: | Permanent |
| Job reference: | 203984 |
Summary
A kitchen in one of London’s most iconic buildings. A chance to lead pastry at the heart of the city’s cultural life.
We are Company of Cooks and we are proud to be the hospitality partner for the Royal Opera House. It is one of the most celebrated venues in the world and home to incredible food, performance and people.
From restaurant dining to rooftop cocktails, afternoon teas to pre show service, this is a building with a lot going on. Pastry plays a key role in making every part of the experience feel special.
We are looking for a Head of Pastry to lead our pastry offer across the site. That includes our brand new restaurant Cicoria, by Angela Hartnett, plus bars, private dining and a full calendar of receptions and events.
Location: WC2E 9DD
Salary: £55,000 - £60,000 per annum
Working Pattern: 40 hours per week – 5 days our of 7, predominantly 9am to 6pm but flexibility to work different shifts is required
About the role:
This is a senior position for someone who has classical skills, modern creativity and a genuine love of flavour. Someone who wants to work across a mix of styles. Someone who cares about the details.
You will be responsible for the pastry kitchen and the development and delivery of every pastry dish across the site. That means plated desserts, event menus, high volume prep and quiet moments of joy. You will lead a great team and work closely with our Executive Chef and General Manager to bring consistency, pace and energy to the pastry kitchen.
Key responsibilities will include:
- Leading the pastry team of 6 pastry chefs including, Sous Chef and Chef De Parties, across all services including restaurant, bar, afternoon tea, private dining and events
- Creating seasonal menus with Angela Hartnett and our senior food team
- Managing prep, production and daily service for everything from individual tarts to banqueting menus
- Supporting and developing a talented team of pastry chefs
- Managing ordering, stock, planning and kitchen admin
- Bringing ideas and creativity to new menus and guest experiences
What we are looking for:
- A confident pastry chef with experience in restaurants, hotels or event venues
- A team leader who can bring people together and set high standards
- A creative approach that respects the classics and champions seasonality
- Strong organisational skills and a steady presence in busy services
- Someone who genuinely cares about hospitality and wants to make people feel looked after
What you will get from us:
- A senior kitchen role in one of London’s most iconic venues
- The opportunity to work closely with Angela Hartnett and a brilliant team
- A varied working day including fine dining, afternoon tea and special events
- A positive and supportive team culture
- Free fresh meals and great coffee on shift
- A view across Covent Garden and a building full of history and inspiration
- Development and progression through Company of Cooks and Compass Group
- Life assurance scheme
- Pension scheme
- Holiday allowance
- Access to Healthcare Support App which includes Annual health check, Digital GP, Mental Health Consultations, Nutritional Consultations, Second Medical Opinion
- Eye care
- A great wellbeing strategy – including access to our Employee Assistance Programme, salary finance
- Family friendly support
- Regular social events and communication with our leaders
- A holiday purchase scheme
- Volunteering days
- Professional subscriptions
- Recognition schemes and people awards
- Long service awards
- Access to some great high street discount vouchers