Hire a Private Chef in 24h
Premium Private Chef recruitment in Kensington, UK. Vetted candidates delivered fast, no upfront fees.




Why Elite Employers Choose Us
For over 20 years, Lighthouse Careers has been the trusted partner for discerning clients seeking exceptional Private Chef professionals. Our rigorous vetting process ensures only the highest caliber candidates.
Rigorous 7-Step Vetting
Background checks, reference verification, and skill assessments
24-Hour Candidate Delivery
Receive your first shortlist within two business days
Success-Fee Model
No upfront costs - you only pay when you hire
Replacement Guarantee
Free replacement if placement doesn't work out
How It Works
Our streamlined process gets you qualified candidates fast.
Share Your Requirements
Tell us about your household or yacht, the role you need filled, and your specific requirements.
Receive Matched Candidates
We search our network and present a shortlist of pre-vetted candidates tailored to your needs.
Interview & Hire
Meet your candidates, conduct interviews, and make your selection with our full support.
Trusted by Industry Leaders
Hear from captains, estate managers, and professionals who have found exceptional talent through Lighthouse Careers.
"I wanted to say a few words of thanks for your all your time and efforts over the past few years. You and your team has always been a massive help in trying to help find us the right candidate for the right job in this ever expanding and delicate industry."

"I've had the pleasure of knowing Milica, and using her recruitment services for many years. Her attention to what I'm looking for in a crew member, fast response and flexibility and understanding of feedback has always impressed me."

"Milica is always my first call when looking for new crew. She helped me get my first command 3 years ago and ever since has supplied me with great candidates for all positions onboard."

"Due to her industry knowledge, great candidates she has provided over the years and great sense of urgency, I decided to appoint Milica's agency to represent our fleet of yachts. It has certainly proved to be a great partnership."

"I have known Milica for over a decade. In that time I have come to value her judgement and advice on Crew Recruitment. She has placed a number of candidates on my commands and she has also helped me secure my dream job!"

"Throughout my 11 years in yachting, I have found Milica to be my go-to agent for jobs. Not only because she has a great reputation in the industry and great boats in her books but also for her care, kindness and professionalism."

About Private Chef Positions
When you hire a Private Chef for your luxury residence, you're investing in culinary excellence that transforms daily dining into an extraordinary experience. A Private Chef in Kensington, UK brings world-class expertise directly to your home, creating bespoke menus tailored to your family's preferences, dietary requirements, and entertaining needs. In one of London's most prestigious neighborhoods, where discerning families expect nothing less than perfection, the right Private Chef becomes an invaluable asset to your household operations.
Essential Responsibilities of a Private Chef in Private Service
Unlike restaurant chefs, Private Chefs in luxury households manage every aspect of culinary operations within an intimate, residential setting. Their responsibilities extend far beyond cooking, encompassing comprehensive meal planning and household integration:
- Creating personalized menus for daily meals, special occasions, and formal entertaining
- Managing all aspects of kitchen operations, including inventory, procurement, and vendor relationships
- Coordinating with other household staff for seamless service delivery
- Accommodating complex dietary restrictions, allergies, and nutritional requirements
- Preparing meals for intimate family dinners and large-scale entertaining events
- Maintaining impeccable kitchen hygiene and food safety standards
- Managing kitchen budgets and cost control while maintaining quality standards
Qualifications and Experience for Excellence
When seeking to hire a Private Chef in Kensington's competitive market, employers should prioritize candidates with exceptional credentials and proven experience in private service:
- Formal culinary training from prestigious institutions (Le Cordon Bleu, CIA, or equivalent)
- Minimum 5-10 years experience in private households, luxury hotels, or Michelin-starred establishments
- Food safety certifications (HACCP, Food Hygiene Level 3)
- Experience with international cuisines and dietary preferences
- Strong references from ultra-high-net-worth families or luxury hospitality venues
- Discretion and understanding of confidentiality requirements
- Flexibility to travel and work in multiple residences
The Kensington Advantage
Kensington's proximity to world-class markets like Harrods Food Halls and Borough Market provides Private Chefs with access to the finest ingredients. The area's sophisticated dining culture and international community create an environment where culinary excellence is not just appreciated but expected, making it essential to partner with specialists like Lighthouse Careers who understand the unique requirements of luxury private service.
Private Chef Market in Kensington, UK
Private Chef Services in Kensington, UK
Kensington stands as one of London's most prestigious boroughs, home to ultra-high-net-worth families who demand exceptional culinary expertise. The local market for a Private Chef in Kensington, UK is highly competitive, with discerning employers seeking world-class talent to manage their household dining requirements. From the grand Victorian mansions near Hyde Park to the elegant townhouses of South Kensington, the demand for skilled private chefs continues to outpace supply in this exclusive enclave.
Salary Expectations and Market Insights
When you hire Private Chef Kensington, UK, expect to invest significantly in top-tier talent. Experienced private chefs in Kensington typically command salaries ranging from £60,000 to £120,000 annually, with exceptional candidates earning upwards of £150,000. Live-in positions often include luxury accommodation, while live-out roles may offer additional benefits to offset Kensington's premium cost of living.
The proximity to Belgravia, Chelsea, and Knightsbridge creates intense competition for the finest culinary professionals. Many private chefs serving Kensington households possess:
- Michelin-starred restaurant experience
- International cuisine specializations
- Food safety certifications (Level 2 minimum)
- Discretion agreements for high-profile clients
International candidates often require Skilled Worker visas, making early recruitment planning essential. Lighthouse Careers understands these unique market dynamics and maintains relationships with exceptional private chefs who meet Kensington's exacting standards for culinary excellence and professional discretion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about hiring a Private Chef in Kensington, UK
How much does it cost to hire a Private Chef in Kensington, UK through Lighthouse Careers?
Lighthouse Careers operates on a success-fee model with no upfront costs to hire a Private Chef in Kensington, UK. You only pay our placement fee once we successfully place a candidate who meets your requirements. This fee-for-success approach ensures we're fully committed to finding the right Private Chef for your household. There are no registration fees, search fees, or charges for our initial consultation and candidate shortlisting services.
What is the typical timeline to hire a Private Chef in Kensington, UK?
Our typical placement timeline to hire a Private Chef in Kensington, UK is 1-2 weeks from initial consultation to final placement. We deliver your first shortlist of qualified candidates within 48 hours of receiving your requirements. This expedited process is possible due to our extensive network of pre-vetted culinary professionals and our deep understanding of the Kensington luxury household market.
What qualifications should I look for when hiring a Private Chef in Kensington, UK?
When hiring a Private Chef in Kensington, UK, look for formal culinary training from prestigious institutions, experience in high-end restaurants or private households, and expertise in your preferred cuisines. Essential qualifications include food safety certifications, wine knowledge, and experience with dietary restrictions. Many Private Chefs in Kensington also have experience catering for entertaining, knowledge of seasonal British ingredients, and the ability to work with premium suppliers in the area.
What vetting process does Lighthouse Careers use for Private Chef candidates?
Our comprehensive vetting process includes thorough background checks, employment verification, and detailed reference checks from previous employers. We conduct skills assessments, including practical cooking demonstrations when required. All candidates undergo identity verification, right-to-work checks, and we verify their culinary qualifications and certifications. This rigorous process ensures you hire a Private Chef who meets the highest standards expected in Kensington's luxury household market.
Do you offer a replacement guarantee when I hire a Private Chef through Lighthouse Careers?
Yes, we provide a comprehensive replacement guarantee when you hire a Private Chef in Kensington, UK through our service. If your placed Private Chef doesn't work out during the initial period, we will source and place a replacement candidate at no additional cost. This guarantee demonstrates our confidence in our selection process and ensures your investment in hiring a Private Chef is protected.
Why choose Kensington, UK for hiring a Private Chef?
Kensington offers access to London's finest culinary talent pool, with Private Chefs experienced in serving ultra-high-net-worth families. The area's proximity to premium food suppliers like Harrods Food Halls, Borough Market, and specialist importers ensures your Private Chef can source the finest ingredients. Kensington's international community means many Private Chefs have diverse culinary expertise, perfect for cosmopolitan households with varied dining preferences.
What services are included when I hire a Private Chef through Lighthouse Careers?
Our comprehensive service includes initial consultation to understand your requirements, candidate sourcing and screening, interview coordination, reference verification, and contract negotiation support. We also provide ongoing support during the settling-in period and access to our replacement guarantee. Additionally, we offer guidance on salary benchmarking, role definition, and best practices for managing your Private Chef in Kensington, UK.
How do I get started with hiring a Private Chef in Kensington, UK?
Getting started is simple - contact Lighthouse Careers for a confidential consultation where we'll discuss your household's specific requirements, dietary preferences, and lifestyle needs. We'll then create a detailed role specification and begin sourcing suitable Private Chef candidates. Within 48 hours, you'll receive your first shortlist of qualified professionals ready to hire in Kensington, UK.
What salary should I expect when hiring a Private Chef in Kensington, UK?
Private Chef salaries in Kensington, UK typically range from £45,000-£80,000+ annually, depending on experience, qualifications, and role requirements. Factors affecting salary include cuisine specialties, entertaining responsibilities, household size, and whether the position includes additional duties. Live-in positions may offer lower base salaries but include accommodation and benefits. We provide current market rate guidance to ensure competitive compensation when you hire a Private Chef.
Should I hire a live-in or live-out Private Chef in Kensington, UK?
The choice between live-in and live-out depends on your household's needs and available space. Live-in Private Chefs offer greater flexibility for early breakfasts, late dinners, and spontaneous entertaining, ideal for busy Kensington households. Live-out arrangements provide more privacy and are suitable when you have regular meal schedules. Many Kensington families prefer live-out due to property constraints, with Private Chefs easily commuting from nearby areas.
Will my Private Chef in Kensington, UK be available for travel?
Many Private Chefs in Kensington, UK are available for domestic and international travel, understanding that ultra-high-net-worth families often have multiple residences or travel frequently. Travel availability should be discussed during the hiring process, including compensation for travel days, accommodation arrangements, and advance notice requirements. Some Private Chefs specialize in travel positions and have experience working in various international locations and adapting to different kitchen facilities.
What should I know about trial periods and contracts when hiring a Private Chef in Kensington, UK?
We recommend a 1-3 month trial period when you hire a Private Chef in Kensington, UK, allowing both parties to ensure compatibility. During this period, you can assess their culinary skills, professionalism, and fit with your household routine. Contracts should clearly outline duties, working hours, salary, benefits, and termination procedures. We provide guidance on structuring fair contracts that comply with UK employment law and protect both employer and employee interests.
Our Placement Guarantee
We're so confident in our matching process that we offer a replacement guarantee. If your placed Private Chef doesn't meet expectations within the guarantee period, we'll find a replacement at no additional cost.

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