Executive Head Chef - Large-Scale Catering & Menus

CamWebDir; Cambridge; Remote; GBP 42,000 - 62,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Generous annual leave

Pension scheme

Staff counselling

Relocation support

Job summary

The University of Cambridge is seeking a Head Chef to join us full-time (36.5 hours, Monday to Friday). You will lead high-quality production across cafés, hospitality events and dining services within the West Hub, ensuring exceptional standards and strict food safety compliance.

You will manage a chef team, plan innovative menus, handle purchasing, stock control and supplier relations, monitor budgets and waste, and oversee rotas, training and performance.

Qualifications

• Experience in a similar or large-scale catering operation.
• Strong expertise in menu planning, purchasing, and kitchen management.
• Proven staff management and training experience.
• Excellent customer service and communication skills.
• In-depth knowledge of HACCP and food safety systems.
• Full UK driving licence.

Responsibilities

• Lead, motivate, and develop a team of chefs.
• Plan and deliver innovative, high-quality menus.
• Manage purchasing, stock control, and supplier relationships.
• Ensure compliance with HACCP, hygiene, and safety standards.
• Monitor budgets, costs, and waste.
• Oversee staffing rotas, training, and performance management.
• Support sustainability initiatives aligned with University policy.

Skills

Catering management

Menu planning

Purchasing

Staff management

Customer service

Food safety (HACCP)

Education

NVQ Level 4 or equivalent

Advanced Food Hygiene Certificate (Level 4)

Job description

The University of Cambridge is seeking a Head Chef to join us full-time (36.5 hours, Monday to Friday). You will lead high-quality production across cafés, hospitality events and dining services within the West Hub, ensuring exceptional standards and strict food safety compliance.

You will manage a chef team, plan innovative menus, handle purchasing, stock control and supplier relations, monitor budgets and waste, and oversee rotas, training and performance.