Chef Manager | Lead a Busy Catering Team (Mon–Fri)

ESS – Defence, Energy and Government Services; Aldermaston; On-site; GBP 34,000 - 42,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Free meals

Onsite car parking

Contributory pension

Career Pathways

MyLearning

Digital GP access

Discounts on travel

Cinema discounts

Job summary

ESS – Defence, Energy and Government Services is seeking an experienced Chef Manager to lead the catering operation at AWE Mensa near Aldermaston. You will manage a small team of four and oversee a busy lunch service with up to 50 meals daily, plus grab‑and‑go options and a 24/7 unmanned retail shop.

This hands‑on role requires strong culinary leadership, food safety knowledge and a focus on quality, stock control, compliance and driving growth in our on‑site catering offer.

Qualifications

• Previous Chef Manager, Head Chef, or Catering Management experience.
• Strong culinary and leadership skills.
• Experience managing budgets, food costs, and stock control.
• Knowledge of food safety and compliance.
• Commercial mindset with focus on growth and customer experience.
• Eligibility to obtain security clearance, including 5 years' UK residency.

Responsibilities

• Lead catering operation and manage a team of four.
• Oversee lunch service serving up to 50 meals daily.
• Maintain food quality, stock control, and compliance.
• Drive financial performance and grow sales.

Skills

Leadership

Culinary excellence

Budget management

Stock control

Food safety

Job description

ESS – Defence, Energy and Government Services is seeking an experienced Chef Manager to lead the catering operation at AWE Mensa near Aldermaston. You will manage a small team of four and oversee a busy lunch service with up to 50 meals daily, plus grab‑and‑go options and a 24/7 unmanned retail shop.

This hands‑on role requires strong culinary leadership, food safety knowledge and a focus on quality, stock control, compliance and driving growth in our on‑site catering offer.