Chef Supervisor - Abingdon

Sodexo; Abingdon; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading catering service provider is seeking a Chef Supervisor to oversee kitchen operations at multiple locations. You will motivate and supervise the cooking team, ensure adherence to health and safety protocols, and maintain the quality of service. Candidates should possess experience in a catering role and relevant qualifications such as BSC in Catering or equivalent. This position offers opportunities for training and career development within the company in a supportive work environment.

Benefits

On-the-job training

Career development opportunities

Wellbeing Support

Financial Benefits

Work Perks

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a catering operational role.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Qualified to one of the following: BSC (Catering), MHCIM, HND, City & Guilds 706/1 and 2, NVQ Level 2 & 3, with Level 3 Food Safety certification.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily kitchen operations across multiple locations.
• Deputise for the Head Chef when required.
• Maintain cleanliness and hygiene standards.

Skills

Catering operational experience

Teamwork

Strong communication skills

Attention to detail

Knowledge of Health & Safety regulations

Competent in MS Office

Education

BSC (Catering) or equivalent

Level 3 Food Safety certification

Job description

We are seeking a passionate and skilled Chef Supervisor to join our catering team at Dalton Barracks, OX13 6JB, delivering exceptional services to our client organisation across multiple onsite locations. You will play a key role in supervising kitchen operations, motivating the team, ensuring high standards, and stepping in for the Head Chef when required. This is an exciting opportunity to work in a fast-paced, professional environment where quality, teamwork, and client satisfaction are at the heart of everything we do.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily kitchen operations, ensuring services meet client specifications across multiple locations.
• Motivate, supervise, and support chefs, assisting with training and development programmes.
• Deputise for the Head Chef during periods of absence, making operational decisions to maintain service delivery.
• Ensure correct cooking, disposal, and storage of food in line with company standards and legislation.
• Monitor and record fridge, freezer, hot cabinet, and servery temperatures as per the Sodexo Safety Management System (SMS).
• Guarantee all foods are served and held at required temperatures, with checks accurately probed and recorded.
• Manage ingredient usage in line with recipe cards, exercising cost control and minimising waste.
• Operate and maintain the DRIVE system, ensuring menus and recipes are followed.
• Uphold cleanliness, hygiene, and PPE standards at all times.
• Maintain effective communication with the catering team, management, and the client organisation.
• Lead handover procedures and ensure opening and closing processes are fully completed.
• Attend briefings, meetings, and performance reviews to ensure team and personal objectives are met.
• Maintain strong client and customer relationships, handling feedback professionally and promptly.
• Care for and monitor the correct use of equipment, materials, and supplies.
• Report near-miss incidents, accidents, and faulty equipment to management in a timely manner.
• Provide catering support services across the site, including preparation, cooking, presentation, storage, and waste disposal.
• Ensure all operational areas meet service standards and comply with health and safety regulations.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a catering operational role.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• High attention to detail and adherence to standards.
• Knowledge of Health & Safety and Food Safety regulations.
• Competent in MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook).
• Qualified to one of the following or equivalent: BSC (Catering), MHCIM, HND, City & Guilds 706/1 and 2, NVQ Level 2 & 3, with Level 3 Food Safety certification.

Desirable

• Experience in contract catering.

What we offer:

• On-the-job training with experienced professionals
• Fully funded apprenticeship qualifications
• Career development opportunities within Sodexo
• A friendly and supportive work environment
• Wellbeing Support - Unlimited online resources, a free health app with 24/7 virtual GP, and an Employee Assistance Programme.
• Financial Benefits - Discounts for you and your family, salary finance support, retirement plan, and a death-in-service benefit.
• Career Growth - Apprenticeships, learning tools, and development opportunities.
• Work Perks - Cycle to Work Scheme, volunteering opportunities, flexible work, full training, and a protective uniform.