Group Executive Chef - Education Catering Leader

Compass Group UK; Reigate and Banstead; On-site; GBP 90,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Compass Group UK is seeking an experienced Group Executive Chef to lead culinary operations across Lodestone House, spanning multiple schools. You will shape the culinary vision, mentor Head Chefs and Chef Managers, and ensure exceptional dining experiences for pupils, staff and visitors.

You’ll drive menu innovation, oversee food safety, manage budgets, and champion sustainable sourcing while traveling between Lodestone House locations as required.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Group Executive Chef, Executive Chef or Regional Executive Chef in education, hospitality or contract catering.
• Experience leading multiple kitchen teams across several sites.
• Strong passion for fresh food, culinary innovation and exceptional customer experiences.

Responsibilities

• Culinary Leadership: Develop and deliver the culinary strategy across the Lodestone House portfolio; lead and mentor chefs; create innovative seasonal menus; drive dining excellence across sites.
• Food Quality & Standards: Champion high quality, presentation and customer experience; ensure food safety and allergen compliance; manage recipes, purchasing and production standards.
• Commercial Performance: Manage food cost, gross profit and budget; use data to maximise participation and profitability; support mobilisations and client engagement.
• People & Talent Development: Build a high-performing culinary leadership team; coach and develop staff; shape career pathways and succession plans.
• Client & Business Partnership: Build relationships with school leadership and stakeholders; support events and business development; act as culinary ambassador.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Menu development

Food cost management

People development

Stakeholder management

Job description

Compass Group UK is seeking an experienced Group Executive Chef to lead culinary operations across Lodestone House, spanning multiple schools. You will shape the culinary vision, mentor Head Chefs and Chef Managers, and ensure exceptional dining experiences for pupils, staff and visitors.

You’ll drive menu innovation, oversee food safety, manage budgets, and champion sustainable sourcing while traveling between Lodestone House locations as required.