Chef Manager — Lead a High-Volume Defence Kitchen

Compass Group UK; Brecon; On-site; GBP 31,000 - 38,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Free meal on duty

Uniform provided

Free on-site parking

Subsidised gym membership

Contributory pension scheme

Career Pathways and MyLearning

Job summary

ESS (part of Compass Group UK & Ireland) is seeking an experienced Chef Manager to lead the catering operation at Brecon Camp. You will manage a team of 14 catering professionals, delivering fresh, nutritious dining across services and driving food quality and compliance.

In a permanent, full-time role, you’ll oversee daily dining and special events, foster a positive team culture, and work closely with clients to exceed expectations while maintaining high service standards and safety compliance.

Qualifications

• Previous experience as a Head Chef, Chef Manager, or similar leadership role.
• Strong team management and people development skills.
• Excellent organisational and communication abilities.
• Experience managing food safety, compliance, and kitchen operations.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-volume environment.

Responsibilities

• Leading, coaching, and developing a team of 14 catering professionals.
• Delivering fresh, nutritious, and high-quality food across all services.
• Planning menus and supporting hospitality and special event catering.
• Managing stock, ordering, budgets, and waste control.
• Ensuring food safety, health and safety, and compliance standards are consistently met.
• Driving operational excellence and maintaining exceptional service standards.
• Creating a positive team culture where people can thrive and develop.
• Working closely with clients to ensure their expectations are exceeded.

Skills

Team management

People development

Leadership

Communication

Food safety

High-volume environment

Education

Catering qualifications (NVQ/City & Guilds)

Job description

ESS (part of Compass Group UK & Ireland) is seeking an experienced Chef Manager to lead the catering operation at Brecon Camp. You will manage a team of 14 catering professionals, delivering fresh, nutritious dining across services and driving food quality and compliance.

In a permanent, full-time role, you’ll oversee daily dining and special events, foster a positive team culture, and work closely with clients to exceed expectations while maintaining high service standards and safety compliance.