Executive Head Chef

Compass Group PLC; Hertford; On-site; GBP 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent catering company in Hertford is seeking an experienced Executive Chef to lead a talented team and ensure high-quality food preparation. The role involves direct responsibility for food safety, budget management, and overseeing food production for customers and various events. Ideal candidates will have a strong culinary background, excellent leadership skills, and the ability to innovate in food offerings. Competitive salary and multiple benefits are offered, including a pension scheme and exclusive discounts.

Benefits

Contributory pension scheme

Career development programs

Digital GP access

Travel discounts

Food shop discounts

Cinema ticket discounts

Cash rewards

Wellness classes

Qualifications

• Proven experience as Executive Chef or Head Chef for large numbers.
• Great people skills and communication at all levels.
• Real passion for food and excellent customer service.
• Up to date with current food trends.

Responsibilities

• Plan and direct food preparation to enhance reputation.
• Hands-on approach to food production for various services.
• Oversee food safety and monitoring procedures.
• Maintain budgetary control and monitor kitchen costs.

Skills

Culinary skills

Leadership

Communication

Customer service

Financial understanding

Organizational skills

Food innovation

Job description

Job Overview

We know as a company that great food comes from great ingredients. Our Chefs use seasonal produce, adding their own individual creativity to let the food speak for itself. We pride ourselves on being able to provide a diverse range of cuisines that keep up to date with today's trends ensuring we offer a great dining experience. We nurture and develop our teams to enrich their skills which allows them to show their passion and inspiration that as a company we are proud to encourage. You will be leading a large team of individuals that supports high quality food, in a exceptional environment that promotes passion and enthusiasm, along with passion for preparing exciting fresh and nutritious food on a daily basis. We are looking for a talented and experienced Executive Chef to join a great existing team at this prospective and prestigious contract, helping us to further enhance the food offer working alongside the senior leadership team on site. This is busy and challenging role, and requires exceptionally talented individuals. In return we offer support and development to grow within our business alongside a competitive salary.

Responsibilities

• The Executive Chef will plan, organise and direct the preparation and cooking of food ensuring that the company's reputation for quality is enhanced with customers and clients at all times.
• Adopt a hands on approach taking responsibility for the food production covering pupil and staff feeding along with an extensive range of hospitality and events.
• Possess an exceptional drive for quality for Hospitality events.
• Responsible for all aspects of food safety, H&S and COSHH.
• The Executive Chef will also be required to implement and maintain food monitoring procedures to facilitate budgetary control and to monitor all costs involved in the kitchen against agreed budgets.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a role as Executive Chef or Head Chef being able to demonstrate a track record of catering for large numbers and making the customer feel that their meal has been individually prepared for them.
• Have great people skills and able to communicate at all levels, lead, develop, train, motivate and inspire a large team.
• Show a real passion for food whilst demonstrating excellent customer service.
• Food Innovation and development is essential along with being up to date with current food trends.
• Superb culinary skills.
• Excellent financial understanding.
• High standards and be quality driven.
• Excellent organisational skills.
• A "Can do" attitude and hands on approach.

Benefits

• Mostly Monday to Friday, some weekends.
• Contributory pension scheme.
• Grow your career with our Career Pathways and MyLearning programmes.
• Quick access for you and your immediate family to a Digital GP, and wider healthcare benefits.
• Exclusive travel discounts with TUI, Expedia, Booking.com and many more.
• Save money on your food shop with discounts on Tesco, Sainsbury's, Morrisons and many more.
• Up to 44% off cinema tickets to enjoy your favourite blockbuster.
• Receive cash rewards every time you spend and use them on a wide range of brands.
• Un-wind with us with free wellness, mindfulness and exercise classes.
• You can share all discounts and offers with your friends and families.

Location & Compensation

Job Description: Executive Head Chef – Fanhams Hall, Ware
Location: Hertfordshire
Salary: £50,000

Equal Opportunity Statement

We are committed to fostering an environment where every individual can truly be themselves at work and has equal opportunities to advance in their careers. We strive to build a culture that respects and celebrates the unique talents, beliefs, backgrounds, and abilities of all our team members. We want our colleagues to feel valued, empowered to reach their full potential, and to thrive - because diversity is our strength!