Chef – Create Menus, Lead Kitchen Team & Service

Chartwells Independent; Shefford; On-site; GBP 23,000 - 29,000; Full time

Job summary

Compass Group UK&I ESS is recruiting a Chef to deliver high-quality meals for Defence on a full-time basis (35 hours per week) in the UK. The role focuses on cooking, menu development, and delivering outstanding customer service within a branded food service environment.

The ideal candidate will hold relevant food safety qualifications, have kitchen supervisory experience, and demonstrate flexibility with working hours to ensure excellent service.

Qualifications

• Must have strong cooking skills and passion for delivering high-quality food.
• Experience supervising a kitchen team is essential.
• Flexibility in working hours and shifts is expected.
• Knowledge of food safety and hygiene standards is required.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and serve high-quality food for Defence clients.
• Oversee and implement menu changes.
• Identify opportunities to improve food services.
• Respond to customer feedback to raise service standards.
• Assist with creating new menus and concepts.
• Represent Defence and maintain a positive brand image.
• Monitor stock and inventories for kitchen planning.
• Maintain kitchen hygiene and sanitation standards.
• Comply with Food Handling, Hygiene and Health and Safety regulations.

Skills

Team supervision

Cooking skills

Customer service

Food safety

Education

City & Guilds 706/1 & 2 or NVQ equivalent

Food Hygiene certificate

Job description

Compass Group UK&I ESS is recruiting a Chef to deliver high-quality meals for Defence on a full-time basis (35 hours per week) in the UK. The role focuses on cooking, menu development, and delivering outstanding customer service within a branded food service environment.

The ideal candidate will hold relevant food safety qualifications, have kitchen supervisory experience, and demonstrate flexibility with working hours to ensure excellent service.