Hands-On Sous Chef: Lead High-Volume Catering

Chartwells Independent; Exeter; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 36,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Free meals

Onsite parking

Contributory pension

Career development programmes

Digital GP access

Healthcare benefits

Travel discounts

Discounts on groceries

Cinema benefits

Cash rewards

Wellness & mindfulness classes

Job summary

Compass Group UK&I in the UK is seeking an experienced, hands-on Sous Chef to lead our catering operation. This is a fantastic opportunity for a kitchen leader who enjoys being on the tools, supporting their team, and delivering high-quality food in a fast-paced, structured environment.

You’ll be responsible for daily feeding and function activities while leading and developing a dedicated team. We offer a comprehensive benefits package including free meals, onsite free car parking, contributory

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a Sous Chef or Senior Chef role.
• Hands-on leader who enjoys working with their team.
• Strong organisational and communication skills.
• Ability to manage a small team effectively and responsibly.
• Calm under pressure in a high-volume catering environment.
• Reliable and flexible to changing weekly schedules.
• A safety-first mindset with a passion for food.

Responsibilities

• Preparing and delivering high-quality, nutritious meals for Service Personnel.
• Leading from the front in a hands-on Sous Chef role.
• Managing daily feeding and function activities.
• Supporting, motivating, and developing a team.
• Ensuring excellent food presentation, consistency, and service standards.
• Managing food ordering, stock control, and minimising waste.
• Maintaining high standards of food hygiene, cleanliness and safety.
• Managing budgets and ensuring financial targets are met.
• Ensuring compliance with Food Safety and Health & Safety regulations.

Skills

Hands-on leadership

Team development

Organisational skills

Communication skills

Calm under pressure

Reliability & flexibility

Food safety mindset

Job description

Compass Group UK&I in the UK is seeking an experienced, hands-on Sous Chef to lead our catering operation. This is a fantastic opportunity for a kitchen leader who enjoys being on the tools, supporting their team, and delivering high-quality food in a fast-paced, structured environment.

You’ll be responsible for daily feeding and function activities while leading and developing a dedicated team. We offer a comprehensive benefits package including free meals, onsite free car parking, contributory