Executive Chef

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

Job summary

A leading contract caterer is seeking an Executive Chef to lead culinary standards across school sites in Haywards Heath. You will oversee the rollout of new menus, ensure operational excellence and compliance, and mentor kitchen teams. With a focus on creativity and quality, this role is ideal for a culinary leader looking to make a significant impact. You will also manage budgets and contribute to maintaining high standards for food safety and client satisfaction.

Qualifications

• Ability to develop and launch innovative food offers.
• Experience in mentoring and coaching kitchen staff.
• Deep understanding of compliance and safety regulations.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the development and launch of new menus.
• Ensure food quality, presentation, and service excellence.
• Coach and develop Chefs and Unit Managers on standards.

Skills

Leadership in culinary operations

Creativity in food production

Strong communication skills

Budget management

Knowledge of food trends

Job description

We are searching for a highly skilled and strategic Executive Chef to lead the culinary standards across our school sites. You will be instrumental in the rollout and launch of exciting new menus, using your expertise to ensure they are operationally sound, profitable, and genuinely delicious. You'll be the ultimate resource for our kitchen teams. Your responsibilities will include:

• 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.
• 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, emphasising 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.