Executive Chef

Aspens Services Ltd; Crawley; On-site; GBP 27,000 - 28,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading contract caterer in the UK seeks an experienced culinary leader to oversee food offer development, mentor teams, and ensure compliance with safety standards. The ideal candidate will exhibit creativity and strong industry knowledge while managing budgets effectively. Join a company committed to enriching children's dining experiences and driving growth in the business.

Qualifications

• Proven ability to communicate effectively at all levels.
• Experience working in a senior culinary role.
• Strong understanding of budgets and costs.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the development and launch of innovative food offers.
• Mentor and coach Chefs and Unit Managers on compliance and standards.
• Guarantee immaculate food standards and presentation.

Skills

Compliance adherence

Creativity in food production

Strong industry knowledge

Budget management

Effective communication

Experience in compliance-led environment

Job description

Responsibilities

• Leading the Rollout: Oversee the development and launch of innovative food offers, expertly balancing financial, operational, and consumer requirements.
• Trendsetting: Develop engaging food offers and marketing initiatives that keep us cutting‑edge, profitable, and ahead of high‑street trends.
• Mentoring and Coaching: Actively coach and develop Chefs and Unit Managers across your area on company standards, compliance, and policies related to food quality and safety.
• Driving Service Excellence: Guarantee that food standards, presentation and service are consistently immaculate, acting as a final point of escalation for customer issues.
• Driving Growth: Ensure our exceptional food offering increases sales and supports the retention of existing business.

Qualifications

• Compliance Expert: Uphold the strictest adherence to all company, client, and statutory regulations (H&S, hygiene, COSHH).
• You are currently working in a development or senior culinary role and are ready for a new challenge.
• You can demonstrate exceptional creativity and flair in the food you produce.
• You possess strong industry knowledge, constantly keeping up‑to‑date with the latest trends and innovations.
• You have a strong understanding of budgets and costs and, crucially, the ability to effectively pass this financial knowledge on to your team.
• You have proven ability to communicate effectively at all levels, successfully driving company initiatives and engaging diverse audiences.
• You are highly experienced in working within a compliance‑led environment, emphasizing the importance of rigorous policies and procedures.

Aspens Services is a market‑leading contract caterer specialising in school food. We don't just serve meals—we create fantastic food experiences that fuel young minds! By blending deep knowledge of the education sector with the latest food trends, we encourage creativity and excitement in every kitchen. Our commitment to quality care for both clients and children has fueled rapid growth, and we are looking for passionate people like you to join our journey.

37.5 hours per week

39 weeks per year

£27,000 - £28,000 per annum

Please note, we expect all staff to share our commitment of safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children/young people so an enhanced DBS disclosure will be sought by the company.